Cutting Edge Information Investigates Pharma's Stance on ACCME's Proposition to Create Commercial Support Free(TM) CME Programs

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC--(Marketwire - May 21, 2009) - The ACCME is asking for public feedback as it mulls over a new policy that would give a special accreditation to "Commercial Support Free™" CME programs. Also in consideration is a new policy to distinguish CME programs that use "Promotional Teacher and Author-Free™" educators. Those interested in submitting comments regarding either topic have until May 21. They can access the forms online at http://www.accme.org/.

The recent backlash spawning from the pharmaceutical industry's ties to education and research has not gone unnoticed by the ACCME. Big pharma is also listening. According to Cutting Edge Information's latest thought leader report "Key Opinion Leaders: Relationship Management and Segmentation Data" (http://www.PharmaOpinionLeaders.com), companies are already having difficulties justifying the cost associated with supporting CME. Adding this new accreditation would go one step further toward vilifying industry-sponsored CME.

"The implication of the Commercial Support Free™ designation is the desire to create CME programs that are not 'compromised' by industry funding for physicians who feel that pharma exerts undue influence on CME," said Jordan Stone, research analyst at Cutting Edge Information and the report's lead author.

"This initiative, along with recent policy changes by the ACCME, will soon have pharma companies believing that the programs they fund are commanding less attention, or are being cast as a secondary option. These negative perceptions could cause companies to move their money to a more hospitable environment," continued Mr. Stone.

Cutting Edge Information's research suggests that the ACCME should either welcome industry sponsorship or deny it completely. Offering a new, prestigious level of CME is a passive way of eliminating corporate sponsorship altogether. The ACCME needs to have open dialogue with all stakeholders involved with CME, and engaging public opinion before any votes are cast is one avenue to accomplish this.

"Key Opinion Leaders: Relationship Management and Segmentation Data" provides detailed recommendations to aid companies' thought leader management strategies and help them adapt to the ever-changing regulatory landscape.

A complimentary brochure is available for download at http://www.PharmaOpinionLeaders.com.

Contact Information: CONTACT INFORMATION: Jordan Stone 919-433-0376