The other day, I was called a ‘Pharma-Babe’ in an online chat group, when I admitted to having worked in medical sales. Two things to note: the first was the automatic assumption that I had been a pharmaceutical sales rep, and the second was the derision in which I should be held.

The individual in question was American, and given the piece below from CBS News, perhaps I can understand his derision. I would like to think that the UK pharmaceutical industry is not at the same stage as the American industry in terms of corruption. But, the constant drive for profits, at any cost, can have only one result. Eventually, rules will be broken. The regulatory system in the UK is different to the USA. I would hope that 9 million opioid tablets going to a pharmacy with a catchment of under 1000 adults would raise red flags in the UK.

 

But, from my own perspective and from many other medical reps, we have ethics. Not all of us are chasing our bonus with no regard for rules. We all have to pass exams. Generally, we are all degree-level educated. I have both a BSc (Hons) and an MSc (Merit). To assume all reps in the UK are like some in the USA would be a bit like me saying all doctors are like [insert name of quack/murderer according to your preference].

 

I worked hard to be able to do the job that I enjoy. I am proud of my ethical stance. It is not too much to ask for others to respect that. And in answer to the earlier point, yes, I have sold pharmaceuticals, but I have also sold devices. The correct description is Pharmaceutical Sales Representative, or Medical Equipment Sales Representative. Keep your derision for where it is deserved in truth.

CBS News: The cause of the American opioid crisis?