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. 2022 Sep;56(5):805-813.
doi: 10.1007/s43441-022-00424-x. Epub 2022 Jun 21.

The Medical Science Liaison Role in Spain: A Survey Capturing the Opinion of Medical Department Professionals

Adela Matesanz-Marín  1 , Antonio González Del Castillo  2 , Víctor Sastre  3 , Cristina García  4
Affiliations

The Medical Science Liaison Role in Spain: A Survey Capturing the Opinion of Medical Department Professionals

Adela Matesanz-Marín et al. Ther Innov Regul Sci. 2022 Sep.

Abstract

Background: Literature that addresses the role of Medical Science Liaison (MSL) is currently limited. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first survey in Spain that gathers opinions from professionals whose work is either in or related to the medical departments from pharmaceutical companies.

Methods: A survey delivered by the SurveyMonkey online platform was completed by 101 pharmaceutical industry professionals (medical advisor/manager, 31.7%; medical director, 26.7%; medical information, 12.9%; and MSL manager, 11.9%).

Results: The median score for the global impression of the MSL was 8.7. The collaboration goes beyond formation since 85.1% of the respondents believed that MSLs should actively collaborate in both clinical trials and investigator-initiated studies, they should have more involvement with market access (51.5%), and they play an important role in compliance (94.0%). There was a tendency toward granting MSLs more responsibilities in terms of budget (73.3%) and their participation in the elaboration of the Medical Plan (91.1%). This position was considered as a strategic partner both internally and externally (76.2%).

Conclusion: MSL is a well-known field-based profile with increasing importance and responsibilities. MSLs represent a strategic position as internal collaborators in the company, whose success relies on cross-functional work. The MSL's profile is in constant development, currently facing challenges such as adapting to remote interactions, or providing a clear definition with the best metrics to measure their performance as a non-promotional position.

Keywords: Medical Science Liaison; Opinion; Pharmaceutical industry; Spain; Survey.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors of this publication have no conflict of interest to disclose. They are not speaking on behalf of their current companies or any previous companies.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Participants’ opinion about the adequacy of the number of MSLs, their professional category, budget disposal, and participation in the Medical Plan development
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Participants’ opinion about present and future MSL competencies, their strategic position, and overall MSL rating
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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