AUTH/1998/8/07: Anonymous GP v Merck Sharp & Dohme — meeting invitation (no breach) | PMCPA Case

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Key facts

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Case number	AUTH/1998/8/07
Parties	Anonymous GP v Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited
Issue	Allegedly unprofessional/unclear invitation to a medical meeting
Applicable Code year	2006
Clause(s) considered	Clause 15.2
Complaint received	18 May 2007
Case completed	18 June 2007
Appeal	No appeal
Outcome	No breach
Sanctions	None stated
Material	Invitation to a meeting

Reviewed by Dr Anzal Qurbain (FFPM) — ABPI Final Signatory

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An anonymous GP complained about a meeting invitation issued by two Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD) representatives, describing it as “one of the most unprofessional invitations” and saying it took time to work out where it came from.
The Authority asked MSD to respond in relation to Clause 15.2 (high standards).
MSD said the invitation used a compliant template; MSD’s involvement was clear in the first and last lines; the subject matter, agenda and logistics were clear, including limitations (eg, spouses could not be accommodated).
MSD stated both representatives had passed the ABPI representatives’ examination.
The Panel reviewed the invitation wording, including: “Merck Sharp & Dohme cordially invites you…”, representative signatures with the company name after each job title, and “Meeting sponsored by Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited” at the bottom.

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