Medical affairs groups are an increasingly vital part of the modern pharmaceutical company. This review will highlight the major functions, customary organizational structure, and responsibilities of medical affairs departments. These groups perform a wide range of activities often overlapping with sales, marketing, clinical development, and customer service. Medical affairs personnel must strive for the highest scientific integrity in order to produce successful clinical trials and provide the greatest support for the market. It is important that they well understand the regulations surrounding their activities and appreciate the commercial implications of their work. How well the medical affairs group maintains this delicate balance will determine its overall success.
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