BRUSSELS – 19 May 2014 – COCIR has launched a new and improved version of its pan-European Code of Conduct, which sets the standard for member companies in their interactions with healthcare professionals.    

“In order to continue being successful, self-regulation needs to respond to the evolving demands of governments, industry and society at large.  The revised Code contains additional guidance in a number of new areas to satisfy growing expectations that interactions between medical technology companies and healthcare professionals are conducted with integrity and transparency" says Nicole Denjoy, Secretary General at COCIR.  
New rules have been introduced, relating to topics such as public procurement of medical technology, industry support of third party conferences, the provision of educational grants and interactions with independent third parties such as agents, distributors and consultants. In addition, existing guidance has been clarified or strengthened, including topics such as gifts, hospitality and demonstration and evaluation of equipment.   
COCIR is constantly developing additional tools and documents for its members, helping support their activities and facilitating better understanding and implementation of the Code such as a Q&A, Do’s and Don’ts, multilingual e-Learning and training slides.  These supporting documents will also be updated to reflect changes to the Code.

The new Code will become effective on 1st January 2015, with the full package of updated supporting materials which will be released earlier in good time.  Until then, the current COCIR Code – including supporting materials which are already published on the COCIR website – remain in full force and effect.

For more information, contact:

Nicole Denjoy
COCIR Secretary General        
Tel: +32 (0)2 706 8961
denjoy@cocir.org      

Kathryn Sheridan
COCIR Communications Advisor
Tel: +32 (0)496 116198    
press@cocir.org