Aims and principles of the code

 

• Advancement of medical technologies

• Safe and effective use of medical technology

• Research and education

• The principle of image & perception – to consider the image & perception of the medical technology industry that will be projected to the public.

• The principle of separation – interaction between industry & HCO/HCP must not be misused to influence purchasing decisions.

• The principle of transparency – interaction between industry & HCO/HCP must be transparent & comply with national & local laws.

• The principle of equivalence – where HCP are engaged by a member company to perform a service for or on behalf of the member company, the pay by the member company must represent a fair market value.

• The principle of documentation – there must be a written agreement setting out the purpose of any interaction, the services to be performed, the method for reimbursement of expenses, etc. between a member company & HCP.

 

Administering the code

There are procedures in place to provide an effective and efficient complaint-handling process, The Conference Vetting System (CVS) is an independently-managed system which reviews the compliance of Third Party Organised Educational Events with the code.

(The CVS has been established as an online, binding and centralized decision-making process to help member companies review the compliance of relevant Third Party Organised Educational Events with the code. CVS approval is only required for Third Party Organised Educational Events which fall within its scope. Where there is a CVS decision in relation to a specific Third Party Organised Educational Event, this decision is binding upon all member companies.

 

                                     General criteria for events

 

• Event programme – this should directly relate to the specialty and/or medical practice of the HCP. The agenda should be under the sole control & responsibility of the Third Party Organised Educational Events (no gaps during the sessions, all supporting materials are consistent with the scientific or promotional nature of the programme content). A member company shall not organise social, sporting or leisure activities, nor support such elements. These type of events must be outside the educational programme schedule and paid for separately by the HCP.

• Event location & venue – the venue shouldn’t be the main attraction. It would not be appropriate to organise an event in a luxury property with golf, casinos or leisure facilities. Member companies must take into account the following:

1. Potential adverse public perceptions of the venue.

2. Centrally located.

3. Ease of access.

4. Recognised scientific or business centre.

5. Must not be associated with a touristic season.

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• Guests – member companies are not permitted to cover any expenses for guests of HCP. It is also not appropriate for the guest to attend company events.

• Reasonable hospitality – the code seeks to find a balance between the courteous & professional treatment of HCP by member companies. Member companies must meet the requirements of the governing hospitality in the country where the HCP carries on their profession and give due consideration to the requirements in the country where the event is being hosted. Accommodation and other services provided to HCP by member companies should not cover a period of stay beyond the official duration of the event. It is not acceptable to make an advance payment to a HCP to cover prospective expenses but can reimburse against original invoices or receipts.

• Travel – member companies may only pay or reimburse for reasonable and actual travel. Member companies can only pay for or reimburse economy or standard class unless the duration is greater than 5 hours, including connecting flights, in which case business class can be considered. First class is never appropriate.

• Transparency – member companies must ensure full compliance with national laws with regard to the disclosure or approval requirements associated with such financial support and where no such requirements are prescribed shall nevertheless maintain appropriate transparency, as a minimum, by requiring employer notification is made prior to the Event.

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Member companies may provide financial and/or in kind support (e.g. member company products) to Third Party Organised Educational Events in accordance with the rules of this Code.

Such events include:

Third Party Organised Educational Conferences;

and Third Party Organised Procedure Training meetings.