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Interactions between physicians and pharmaceutical sales representatives in Saudi Arabia
Fahad Dakheel Alosaimi1, Abdulaziz Alkaabba, Mahdi Qadi
1Dr. Fahad Dakheel Alosaimi, Department of Psychiatry #55,, King Khalid University Hospital,, PO Box 7805, Riyadh 11472,, Saudi Arabia, T: 966-534-4137, dr.fahad.alosaimi@gmail.com.
Annals of Saudi Medicine
|January 14, 2014
Summary
Physician-pharmaceutical representative interactions are common in Saudi Arabia, with over 70% of doctors engaging with sales reps. Key factors influencing this engagement include physician nationality, income, education, and specialty.
Area of Science:
- Medical Marketing
- Pharmaceutical Industry
- Healthcare Professional Engagement
Background:
- Physician-pharmaceutical representative (PR) interaction is a significant promotional channel for pharmaceutical companies.
- Limited research exists on the prevalence and characteristics of these interactions in Saudi Arabia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the magnitude of physician-PR interaction in Saudi Arabia.
- To identify characteristics associated with physician-PR interaction.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted among 663 physicians in Saudi Arabia from March to July 2012.
- Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires in paper and electronic formats.
Main Results:
- Over 72% of physicians reported interacting with PRs, with higher rates among specialists compared to residents.
- Nearly half of interactions occurred more than monthly, and a majority accepted gifts.
- Physician nationality, income, education, hospital type, specialty, and patient socioeconomic status were associated with interaction.
Conclusions:
- A significant prevalence of physician-PR interaction exists in Saudi hospitals, though potentially lower than globally.
- Understanding associated characteristics is crucial for developing targeted interventions.
- Future research should explore ethical, clinical, prescription, and economic impacts to mitigate negative consequences.
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