How Can General Managers Best Leverage Medical Affairs Now and in the Future?

General managers (GMs) play a crucial role as enterprise leaders of the country affiliate of multi-national pharmaceutical companies, balancing needs, objectives and governance across all local functions. One such function, Medical Affairs, has undergone a significant evolution from a support function into a strategic partner and in some organizations a strategic leader supported by the increasing complexity of medications and a shift to more specialized medicines. Although the function has progressed significantly, there is opportunity to elevate Medical Affairs to another level, with GMs and business unit directors (BUDs) recommending increased business acumen, strategic approach, innovation and project management as competencies that could be further cultivated.

Promoting Best Practices for Medical Science Liaisons Position Statement from the APPA, IFAPP, MAPS and MSLS.

This position paper is intended to provide recommendations that will help lay the foundation for best practices for medical science liaisons (MSLs) and their activities. Its objective is to outline the roles and responsibilities expected of an MSL and provide clarity on the juxtaposition of MSLs and Sales representatives (SRs) when it comes to scientific exchange versus promotional messaging. It is of utmost importance that industry integrity and ethical standards are assured during external stakeholder engagement as well as medical and scientific communications.