Highlights of 2023 and an outlook for 2024
- BELGIUM: MDEON updated its rulebook to include updated fees, meal limits and the added information about hybrid and virtual meetings. Read more
- PORTUGAL: APIFARMA updated its code, to expand its HCP and HCP definitions, incorporate the principles of MedTech Europe, includes a new clause on e4ethics event approval platform, updated wording on provision of sponsorships, etc. Read more
- NETHERLADNS: Stichting CGR updated the maximum HCP FMV (fair market value) caps for 2023. Those are now solely based on the level of experience of an HCP, and not on his/her specialty. Read more
- MedTech EUROPE: updated its code of Ethical Business Practice and it entered into force at the start of 2023. Read more
- UK: PMCPA launched a new social media guidance to help Pharma companies when using such platforms in line with the ABPI code. Read more
- IFPMA: IFPMA launched the IFPMA Ethoscope, where all of their ethics and business integrity-related materials are gathered, in an effort to supports its members, patients, and other stakeholders in the global health community, to cooperate ethically, and easily navigate the resources. It also, updated its guidance on sponsorship of events and meetings. Read more here and here
- Patient Engagement: GCO kicked-off a partnership with PFMD to create patient engagement country code guidelines for Spain, Belgium, The Netherlands, UK, and Romania. More countries will be added in the coming period. Read more
- California, USA: New law requiring physicians, and their employers to notify patients regarding the Open Payments database. Read more
- EFPIA: EFPIA updated its meals and drinks scorecard multiple times through the year.
- DENMARK: ENLI published its updated version of the Guidance on the Promotional code. Read more
- GREECE: SFEE has updated its code, which includes adjusted scope, adherence to GDPR, adding new category of events, new requirements for promotional materials, reduction on allowed sponsorships. Read more
- TURKEY: AIFD has updated its code of ethics to now include vital clarifications regarding the promotion of prescription-only medicines on social media and the transparency of the relationship between Pharma and patient organizations. Read more
2024 Compliance Outlook:
The year started with the Italian Sunshine Act coming into force as of 1 January 2024. Read more
Would other countries follow this trend? Would UK be the next as per the government’s consultation on proposals mandating the disclosure of industry payments to the healthcare sector?
Our advisors Yana Budel, Andreea Crăcuț and Marlize Eckert are closely monitoring evolving European and other regional and local Pharma/MedTech compliance developments. European legislators are increasingly shifting (voluntary) code requirements into legal obligations for the industry, notably on transparency.
Follow us GCO Global for real-time updates, as well as our useful best practices information and information about our SMM solutions.