The government has directed all medical device associations to adopt a standardized code for marketing practices, similar to the one implemented for pharmaceutical companies. This code prohibits organizing overseas workshops for healthcare professionals, as well as offering them luxury accommodations, extravagant meals, or financial incentives.
As reported by economictimes.indiatimes.com, additionally, companies are required to establish an Ethics Committee for Marketing Practices in Medical Devices (ECMPMD). Rajiv Nath, forum coordinator at the Association of Indian Medical Devices Industry (AIMED), expressed support, stating, “This is a very welcome and long-awaited move. The code has been effectively tailored for the medical devices sector, distinct from the one for the pharmaceutical industry.”
According to a Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) notice, the directive under Para 14.1 of the UCMPMD mandates that medical device companies disclose details of sample distribution and expenses related to professional development activities such as conferences, workshops, and seminars.
Earlier this year, the government introduced the Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP), which restricts pharmaceutical companies from organizing overseas workshops or providing healthcare professionals with luxurious accommodations, lavish meals, or monetary grants.