 "The new UCMPMD 2024 aims to eradicate unethical marketing in medical devices, imposing strict penalties for code violations.")
The new Uniform Code for Marketing Practices in Medical Devices (UCMPMD) 2024 aims to regulate unethical practices in the medical device industry. Under this code, Ethics Committees must be formed by device associations to address complaints within 90 days. The code prohibits medical representatives from using inducements to interact with healthcare professionals and restricts gifts or hospitality, ensuring transparency and ethical behavior. It also mandates complete disclosure of evaluation sample distribution and expenses related to medical education. Entities violating the code may face severe penalties, including suspension from associations and public reprimands. The goal is to eliminate conflicts of interest and prioritize patient safety in medical device Marketing.
Title: New Code for Ethical Marketing in Medical Devices Launched
The Indian government has taken a significant step to ensure ethical practices in the medical devices industry with the introduction of the Uniform Code for Marketing Practices in Medical Devices (UCMPMD) 2024. This new code aims to regulate Marketing activities within the sector and mandates the formation of Ethics Committees by medical device associations to oversee compliance.
Under the new rules, these Ethics Committees will be required to resolve any complaints regarding breaches of the code within 90 days. The UCMPMD prohibits medical device companies and representatives from using any kind of inducement to influence healthcare professionals. This means no gifts, monetary benefits, or hospitality such as foreign trips can be offered to healthcare personnel and their families.
According to a notification released by the Department of Pharmaceuticals on September 6, 2024, each medical device association must establish a three to five-member Ethics Committee, which will include the association’s CEO. Additionally, they must create a dedicated online portal for lodging and addressing complaints related to the code.
The UCMPMD also requires detailed disclosure of information connected to the distribution of evaluation samples and expenses related to medical education and training events. These disclosures must be updated continuously and submitted within two months after the end of each financial year.
Non-compliance with the UCMPMD could lead to serious consequences. Entities found violating the code may face suspension, expulsion from their association, or public reprimands. The aim is to create transparency, protect healthcare professionals from deceitful practices, and ultimately ensure the safety of patients.
This regulatory move has been welcomed by industry experts, who believe it will significantly minimize conflicts of interest and improve the integrity of Marketing practices within the medical devices sector.
Tags: Medical Devices, Ethical Marketing, UCMPMD 2024, Healthcare Compliance, India Medical Regulations, Medical Ethics, Patient Safety, Industry News, Medical Device Associations.
What is the new code for medical devices?
The new code for medical devices sets rules for how quickly complaints about these devices should be handled.
How long do companies have to respond to complaints?
Companies must respond to complaints within 90 days.
Why is this code important?
It helps ensure that complaints about medical devices are taken seriously and dealt with quickly, which can improve patient safety.
What happens if a company does not meet the 90-day deadline?
If a company misses the 90-day deadline, they may face penalties or other consequences from regulators.
Will this code change how patients report issues?
No, patients can still report issues as they always have, but companies now have a clear timeline to follow for addressing those complaints.
