Building Stronger Relationships with Key Opinion Leaders Ignites Need for Medical Science Liaisons

CHAPEL HILL, N.C., Aug. 7, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- As regulatory and commercial pressures increase on pharmaceutical organizations, competition for the support of physicians and Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) is simultaneously intensifying. In order to build stronger relationships with these physician groups, biopharma organizations heavily rely on Medical Science Liaisons (MSL) as a part of their Medical Affairs functions.

To help organizations better understand how MSLs can provide critical windows of insight into the market, Best Practices, LLC conducted a comprehensive research study. The benchmarking report, "Roles, Resourcing, and Management of Medical Science Liaisons," further explores the many diverse roles that MSLs play in developing critical relationships that drive success in the pharmaceutical sector.

The report covers various topical areas, including the frequency of interactions between KOLs and MSLs, as well as the perceived value of MSL responsibilities with KOLs. Eighty-nine percent of respondents saw identifying, developing and maintaining strong relationships with KOLs as a "very valuable" activity performed by MSLs. Other highly valued activities included increased scientific interaction and congress support.

Key study objectives included:

• Benchmarking Pre and Post-Launch Service Activities
• Identify Drivers of Group Size & Focus
• Gain Insight into Structuring & Aligning Medical with Sales Organizations
• Identify Optimal Call Frequencies and Service Levels with Thought Leaders
• Identify Relationship Management Standards of Excellence
• Value Associated with MSL
• Budget Allocation to MSLs

This benchmarking research drew participation from 27 leaders at 24 pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Insights were gained from interviews and benchmark performance data. The study assists leaders in uncovering the optimal MSL group size, as well as with mix and service frequencies that are required to build productive relationships with KOLs and hard-to-see physicians.

To access the full report, or to download a complimentary summary containing insights found in this report, click on the following link: http://www.best-in-class.com/rr1227.htm

For more information on other recent primary research studies, contact us at 919.403.0251 or visit our website at [email protected].

ABOUT BEST PRACTICES, LLC

Best Practices, LLC is a leading benchmarking, consulting and advisory services firm serving biopharmaceutical and medical device companies worldwide. Best Practices, LLC's clients include all the top 10 and 48 of the top 50 global healthcare companies. The firm conducts primary research and consulting using its comprehensive proprietary benchmarking tools and analysis. The operational insights, findings and analysis form the basis for our Benchmarking Reports, databases and advisory services to support executives in commercial and R&D operations. Best Practices, LLC believes in the profound principle that organizations can chart a course to superior economic performance by studying the best business practices, operating tactics and winning strategies of world-class companies.

SOURCE Best Practices, LLC

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