New, updated Code of Ethics for Greek drugmakers; transparency action

A new, stricter framework of self-regulation within the industry was unveiled this month by the board of the Hellenic Association of Pharmaceutical Companies (SFEE), at a special event under the auspices of the Ministry of Health, where an updated Code of Ethics was presented.

The revised Code of Ethics sets out a series of "tight" regulations in the promotion of prescribed medicines, establishes a "ceiling" on sponsorships for conferences, and creates specific conditions for the participation of health professionals in conferences.

Furthermore, the revision responds to the need to set specific limits on donations, to establish criteria in terms of market research and to clarify some aspects regarding the rendering of consultancy services.