Minister of Health Issues Decision on Regulations and Principles for Promoting Drugs and Medical Products - Sarmad
(KUNA) – Health Minister Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadi issued a ministerial decision today, Wednesday, concerning the regulations and principles governing the promotion of medicines and medical products, as well as the management of interactions with company representatives within Ministry of Health facilities.
The Ministry of Health stated in a press release that the decision aims to continue developing the regulatory frameworks for practices related to medicines and medical products, enhance the professional environment that supports their rational use, and regulate scientific and institutional communication channels within Ministry of Health facilities.
It added that the decision establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for dealing with companies and their representatives within the Ministry’s facilities, ensuring clarity in communication mechanisms and organizing promotional and scientific practices according to specific controls. It also guarantees that information provided regarding medicines and medical products is accurate, balanced, documented, and verifiable, thereby supporting professional practice and patient safety.
The Ministry clarified that the decision stipulates that company representatives’ visits must be scheduled in advance with the approval of the competent authority, and requires a valid license to practice as a medical representative for the company. Visits are to be restricted to designated meeting rooms and medical education areas.
The Ministry emphasized that the decision prohibits communication with patients or access to their health data, while regulating communication with technical and procurement committees through official channels.
It noted that the decision mandates the approval of promotional materials and ensures the accuracy and balance of their content. It also prohibits promotion outside the approved scope (off-label use), as well as the offering of gifts, personal benefits, rewards, and commissions.
Furthermore, the decision outlines the regulation of scientific activities and care in accordance with Ministry controls, and governs the distribution of drug samples through official channels, with supervisory measures and penalties for violations based on their nature and severity.
