New Study Analyzes Medical Science Liaisons' Programs, Finds Function's Strategic Influence Increasing

| Source: Cutting Edge Information Cutting Edge Information

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC--(Marketwire - April 9, 2008) - Medical science liaisons' strategic importance is on the rise, according to a new report from pharmaceutical business intelligence leader Cutting Edge Information.

"The Changing MSL Role: Proving Value Through Performance Measurement," explores the strategic direction of medical science liaisons (MSL) programs within top pharmaceutical companies. It emphasizes MSLs' elevated strategic importance and their changing responsibilities in today's pharmaceutical landscape. Broken down by company size, the report benchmarks MSL team structures, spending and staffing resources, education levels and field force strategies.

The 203-page report was developed from survey and interview data for 30 pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Its findings enable companies to improve their thought leader management by maximizing their MSLs' value, scientific knowledge and relationship-building skills. Download a complimentary report summary here: http://cuttingedgeinfo.com/mslperformance/PH115_Download.asp#body

This study covers these key aspects of MSL programs: 

--  Structure, Budgets and Staffing: This section details companies'
    structuring and alignment strategies, investment levels, and headcounts.
--  MSL Qualifications and Performance Measurement: This section explores
    the increasing educational and clinical experience required for MSL
    candidates.  It includes compensation data.  It also examines ways in which
    companies gauge MSL effectiveness and contributions to company goals.
--  Field Force Strategies and Communication:  This section outlines MSL
    activities and responsibilities.  It also examines the connections between
    sales forces and MSLs in the new compliance environment and provides
    recommendations for integrated communications between those groups.

The report contains 500+ metrics, including the following: 

--  Number of thought leader relationships by company size
--  Degrees required by MSLs working with PCP thought leaders
--  Breakdowns of thought leader relationships by company size and
    provider category
--  Ratio of MSLs to sales reps

"Regulatory pressures and diminishing pipelines are affecting pharmaceutical functions across the industry, but the impact is especially significant for MSLs," says Elio Evangelista, Research Team Leader at Cutting Edge Information. "Companies now rely even more heavily on medical education and thought leader management. MSLs are moving into more strategic roles. Companies that recognize and adapt to MSLs' increased importance as knowledge providers position themselves for success."

Report Website: www.MSLPerformance.com

Contact Information: CONTACT INFORMATION: Elio Evangelista: 919-433-0214.

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