Medical Affairs is often described as a function in transformation. Yet, for many of us working in this space, that description is already outdated. In practice, the transformation has largely happened. What we are seeing now is not an early signal of change, but the operational reality of the role. One of the clearest places where this reality becomes visible is in MSL … [Read more...]
Applied Neuroscience to the MSL Role: How to Train the Brain to Influence With Integrity
Introduction Imagine this: you walk into a meeting with a leading Key Opinion Leader (KOL). This person barely looks up from his phone, nods while you speak, and leaves you wondering—did my message even land? The very next day, you’re facing a player who insists on cost-effectiveness data, followed by a Digital Opinion Leader DOL asking for a visual summary he can share on … [Read more...]
From Knowledge to Strategic Impact: The Evolution of the MSL Role Across Generations – Vision 2035
1. Introduction: From the Margins to the Core of Strategy It was 1967 when Upjohn Pharmaceuticals introduced a novel role designed to bridge the widening gap between clinical science and medical practice: the Medical Science Liaison (MSL). Initially envisioned as a non-promotional channel for scientific exchange, the MSL emerged in response to growing demands for … [Read more...]
The MSL Role in The Post-Pandemic Scenario: Lessons Learned and Future Prospects
The COVID19 pandemic has impacted the MSL role and how they interact with KOLs. However, even in this dire situation, 53% of KOLs still consider face-to-face engagement with MSLs very important. Therefore, it is vital to effectively promote this engagement in an adapted way. The MSLs and the KOLs have to adapt to this novel situation, where face-to-face meetings are not always … [Read more...]
Virtual relationships with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs): Insights from the COVID-19 scenario
The COVID-19 pandemic has represented a 180 degrees’ flip in the way professional relationships are approached between the Pharma industry and HCPs. Consequently, the MSL role has inevitably been impacted by this change of scenario, which has challenged the capacity of self-transformation and adaptation of the ones occupying this position. Especially, the relationships with … [Read more...]
Last year, on 4th September, my life changed forever
Last year, on 4th September, my life changed forever when I won the Best MSL outside the USA award at the second annual MSL Awards ceremony in Las Vegas. Perhaps, you may think I am exaggerating when I say it changed my life, but quite honestly, it is no exaggeration! Winning the award has directly impacted my career at MSL over the last year. It has given me a fantastic … [Read more...]
The revaluation of email in times of COVID-19: KOL engagement and KPI
As a result of the new situation imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, KOL engagement has been limited at certain times. This has not only translated into less interaction between MSLs and KOLs/HCPs but also the approach to this interaction has had to be carried out in a virtual way, taking advantage of all possible resources (e-mail, video calls, telephone calls, WhatsApp, SMS). … [Read more...]