How to adopt medical device sales ethics

What is ethics in medical sales?

Within medical sales, ethical conduct encompasses a commitment to upholding integrity, transparency, and honesty in all interactions with customers, healthcare providers, and stakeholders.

It includes ensuring that products are presented accurately, adhering to regulatory guidelines, and prioritising patient safety and well-being above all else.

It involves fostering trust through ethical communication, maintaining professional relationships, and consistently prioritising the best interests of patients and the healthcare community.

While medical sales may not involve direct patient interaction, ethical considerations remain pivotal, given that sales representatives typically engage with healthcare professionals and navigate complex regulatory landscapes. 

In fact, one of the top traits successful salespeople need to thrive in medical sales is the care they have for their customers.

Let's delve deeper into the key considerations of ethical medical sales.

1. Patient safety

The foremost concern for any ethical medical sales professional is the safety of the patients. This means going beyond profit margins and ensuring that the products or services being offered genuinely benefit the patient's health, without compromising their well-being.

2. Compliance with regulations 

Respecting and adhering to the stringent regulatory standards set by the healthcare authorities is a fundamental pillar of ethical medical sales. By strictly following these guidelines, professionals can foster an environment of trust and credibility among both customers and regulatory bodies.

3. Transparent communication 

Maintaining clear and transparent communication with customers fosters long-term relationships built on trust.

Being a strong communicator is key to levelling up as a medical sales manager. Openly discussing product details, benefits, and potential risks helps customers make informed decisions in line with their best interests.

4. Upholding continuous education and product knowledge: 

Continuously updating your knowledge about trends shaping the medical devices industry, the products being sold and educating customers about their benefits and potential implications ensures that both the sales professional and the customer are on the same page, fostering an atmosphere of mutual understanding and trust.

5. Trust and Integrity: The Foundation of Professional Conduct 

Nearly 70% of customers need to trust a brand to continue investing in their services or products. Building trust and maintaining integrity should be at the heart of every interaction. This involves being honest about product capabilities and limitations, and avoiding any manipulative tactics that could compromise the trust of the customer.

Ethical sales techniques

You can help your customers, such as healthcare professionals, make informed decisions and trust you to deliver what they need by adopting the 'Serve Don't Sell' (SDS) approach.

SDS involves a series of five stages, ensuring that the customer's needs and well-being remain the focal point throughout the sales process:

• Fit: Understand your customer's requirements and ensure that the product or service aligns with their specific needs.

• Discovery: Encourage open dialogue to unearth your customer's concerns, enabling a comprehensive understanding of their requirements.

• Offer: Present a solution that is tailored to your customer's specific needs and aligns with ethical standards and regulations.

• Agreement: Reach a mutual understanding where the customer is fully aware of the product's capabilities and limitations, and their consent is based on complete and transparent information.

• Transition: Support your customer through the transition phase, providing necessary guidance, ensuring a smooth integration of the product into their healthcare service.

Are you ready to lead an imperative role of ethics in medical sales?

The world of medical sales is not merely about meeting sales targets; it's about the commitment to improving patient outcomes and fostering a healthier society. 

Embracing the core principles of ethics in every step of the sales process not only ensures a successful transaction but also contributes to the advancement of healthcare with integrity and compassion at its core. 

As you embark on the journey to shape the future of medical sales, let IQVIA be the catalyst that propels you towards unprecedented opportunities for professional growth and personal fulfilment. 

Together, let's pave the way for a healthcare ecosystem that is not just driven by profits, but by the unwavering dedication to the well-being of every individual we serve.

Explore opportunities within medical device careers at IQVIA today, from Virtual Medical Device Sales Representatives to Associate Sales Consultant and beyond.