Joint Guidance on Virtual and Hybrid International Medical Congresses by the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA), the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) and the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA)

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to new ways of working for biopharmaceutical companies, which have replaced in-office visits and face-to face congresses with virtual and hybrid engagements to maintain dialogue and scientific exchange with the medical community while protecting the health and safety of patients, healthcare professionals and their own employees.

The IFPMA’s Ethos and Code of Practice set global standards for industry business practices, which must be maintained in the virtual and hybrid settings. This guidance is regularly amended and updated, taking into consideration experience and learnings. Companies should adhere to the requirements established by their country’s applicable laws, regulations, or industry codes of practice. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of the applicable laws, regulations, and codes, the more restrictive of the conflicting provisions should apply.