Working in medical affairs for so many years, there are several lessons learned that we want to share with you. Medical affairs departments benefit from coordination, collaboration, and great teamwork. That’s what all of these lessons learned in medical affairs focus on:

1. Hiring the Right People is Critical

Ensure that your team has a minimum level of competency both scientifically/clinically but also in terms of knowledge regarding medical affairs functions. Board Certification in medical affairs (BCMAS) offered by the Accreditation Council for Medical Affairs (ACMA) is rapidly growing and an excellent way to distinguish candidates.

2. Provide Proper Training & Invest in Professional Development

Proper onboarding is key but surveys have shown that MSLs plateau after about 18 months on the job. Continually providing professional development opportunities such as board certification in medical affairs (BCMAS) can help provide both professional credibility as well as send a message that you care about the long-term career of your team.

3. Build a Complimentary Medical Affairs Organization

It’s great to have experienced individuals; but like any team, hiring folks that come directly from academia, the lab, or clinical practice brings a fresh perspective. With the proper training and development, these individuals can thrive and bring significant value to your organization.

4. Ensure That Your Field Medical Team & “In-House” Medical Team are Coordinated

It’s easy to lose touch with “the field.” Keeping routine one-on-ones helps to force team members to stay connected. Additionally, providing opportunities at social functions (dinners, etc.) helps to build collegiality and rapport among team members which goes a long way in helping “the field” feel connected.

5. Work Cross-Functionally

Don’t forget about your cross-functional partners: Sales/Marketing, Regulatory, Clinical, and Patient Advocacy are our partners. Demonstrate value by reaching out and asking how your organization can help them achieve their goals and objectives. Be proactive. It goes a long way in building trust.