CHAPEL HILL, N.C. - Aug. 30, 2013 - Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) are the bridge between a company and key stakeholders that drive marketplace success. The role of MSLs is rapidly growing, with biopharmaceutical and medical device companies increasingly relying on these elite medical specialists to build strong relationships across a diverse set of customers.

To effectively manage MSL groups, which typically sit within Medical Affairs, organizations must continually re-evaluate and adjust their MSL activities and services to ensure they are creating value across all their customer groups. However, concerns about compliance issues and physician access have made this a challenging task for many biopharmaceutical organizations.

To help MSL teams better navigate the ever-changing business and regulatory environment, research and consulting firm Best Practices, LLC has published a report, "Medical Science Liaisons Services Excellence: Generating Value for Diverse Customer Groups." The report, which is based on findings from a primary research study, explores the structure, management and services that are hallmarks of successful MSL groups.

Study objectives included:

• Explore the methods used by MSLs to serve stakeholders and build stakeholder relationships.
• Identify roles, responsibilities and service levels provided to Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs).
• Explore the ways through which MSLs provide services to KOLs. Determine frequency of services during pre- and post-approval stages.

This study is based on research and information provided by 35 pharmaceutical and medical device executives from 30 companies. The 145-page report provides two segments: the total benchmark class and U.S. only.

To access the full report or to download a complimentary summary containing insights found in this report, click here.

For more information on other recent primary research studies, contact us at 919.403.0251 or visit our website at http://www.best-in-class.com.