The ABPI Code of Practice requires researchers to ensure that their market research relationship with healthcare professionals (HCPs) is both ethical and transparent

ABPI Code (Clause 24) requires
“a written contract or agreement … in advance of the commencement of the services which specifies the nature of the services to be provided and the basis for payment of those services”

Researchers must obtain a record of respondents’ agreement/consent to participate in MR. This must detail all the key ‘terms and conditions’ including data protection requirements associated with the MR. This agreement/consent must be collected from all respondents, both HCPs and non-HCPs and include:

• Subject and purpose of the discussion
• Methodology/approach (the BHBIA recommends that this includes the medium for the MR, and the means by which they would be contacted for recruitment – e.g. telephone and/or email)
• Location, duration of fieldwork
• Date and time of fieldwork
• Reimbursement offered – both nature and rate of remuneration
• Adverse event, product complaint and special reporting situation reporting obligations, if appropriate