Code of Business Practice
It is a condition of ABHI membership that a company adheres to the ethical standards set out in the ABHI Code of Business Practice. The Code stipulates the minimum standards which should apply to members’ business practices in the UK, Europe and elsewhere.
Complaints under the ABHI Code may be referred to a Panel of independent individuals, chaired by an independent barrister.
Summary of Commitments under the Code
The Code sets out specific policies on:
- Quality & Regulatory Compliance
- Interactions with Healthcare Professionals
- Advertising & Promotion
- Unlawful Payments & Practices
- Competition/Antitrust & Procurement Laws
- Export Controls & Sanctions
- Data Privacy
- Compliance & Enforcement
The Code covers Interactions with Healthcare Professionals in detail and this section is supported by a Q&A document which aims to provide direct answers to specific questions that may arise.
There are also detailed Competition Law Guidelines supplemented by a 'Dos & Don'ts' section and guidance on Exchanging Data & Information.
Finally, the Code sets out in detail the Code of Business Practice Complaints Procedure and Panel Constitution.
Documents
Training
Members are strongly advised to consider instituting a system of staff training on the ABHI Code. To assist in this process ABHI has endorsed four companies as being suitably qualified to work with companies on their training needs.
Code in Practice Ltd offers a comprehensive range of services, including in-house bespoke training, seminars and workshops, advice. They can help companies in the creation of SOPs, implementation programmes and internal 'health checks' and audits. Click here for further information on Code in Practice Ltd.
i2a works with organisations to translate rules and standards into behaviours. They specialise in general compliance across organisations, as defined in Codes of Conduct, or equivalent documents but also work in more specialised areas. Click here for further information on i2a.
Kaplan Eduneering develops technology-enabled knowledge solutions for assuring regulatory compliance, reducing risk and improving business performance. Click here for further information on Kaplan Eduneering.
Wellards-Compliance Hub Partnership provides a complete learning solution for compliance with the ABHI Code. Incorporating online and classroom training the package provides certified online training and interactive training sessions to contextualise and reinforce learning for compliance teams, head office and field-based representatives. Click here for further information on Wellards, and here for information on Compliance Hub.
Members should ensure that any training they implement is right for their needs. ABHI has no commercial involvement with any training companies.
Complaints under the ABHI Code
Any complaints about the conduct of any Applicable Company under the Code or the Interactions of Industry with Healthcare Professionals in general should be submitted to ABHI:
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7960 4360, Fax: +44 (0)20 7960 4361, E-mail: complaints@abhi.org.uk.