Collaborations between pharmaceutical companies, medical associations and healthcare professionals play a vital role in organising high-quality educational events and must be transparent, fair and legally compliant.

The AKG (German Association for Pharmaceuticals and Cooperation in Healthcare) defines four core anti-corruption principles, which are intended to serve as guidance for contractual collaborations.

1. Equivalence
All services and any benefits provided in return must be proportionate and appropriate. Any remuneration must be reasonable, with no hidden incentives. The same principles apply to speaker fees.

2. Transparency and approval
All collaborations should be openly reported and, where required, approved internally and externally. This applies in particular to fees, sponsorships and other benefits in kind.

3. Separation
Scientific content and business interests should remain clearly separate. Financial relationships must not compromise medical independence.

4. Documentation
All agreements, whether with healthcare professionals or professional associations, should be clearly documented in writing to be transparent and verifiable. They should set out the services offered, the fees, travel details and the event programme.

What this means in practice

• Contracts should be standardised and legally reviewed
• Fees should be in line with typical industry rates and properly justified
• Services should be clearly described and verifiable
• Contracts with healthcare professionals should specify the services provided as well as appropriate fees
• Collaborations should be evaluated on a regular basis
• Sponsorship agreements with professional associations should be clearly defined and transparent
• Documenting contracts is a legal and professional responsibility that protects everyone involved

We’ll gladly review your event contracts for compliance and support you in structuring your educational projects in a legally compliant way.