Pharma Industry Finland Renews its Code of Ethics
- Finland
- 09/08/2008
- Roschier, Attorneys Ltd. - Finland
The Pharma Industry Finland has updated its Code of Ethics (the “PIF Code”). The renewed version of the Code entered into force on 1 July 2008 and the purpose thereof is to set general guidelines for the marketing of pharmaceuticals as well as to ensure the appropriate nature and confidentiality of information. Almost all companies marketing pharmaceuticals in Finland have committed to comply with the PIF Code.
The renewed PIF Code regulates the cooperation between the pharmaceutical industry and patient organizations. The new Code emphasizes the transparency and openness of this cooperation. According to the renewed PIF Code, pharmaceutical companies shall publish the names of the patient organizations that they have sponsored and the nature of the sponsorship.
Furthermore, the Code of Good Medical Sales Representation Practices accepted in 2007 by the Association of Finnish Local and Regional Authorities has been incorporated into the PIF Code. The purpose of the Code was to create common guidelines for medical sales representation in order to ensure the quality of medical care. The renewed PIF Code also includes provisions concerning scholarships and consultancy agreements with health care professionals.
