Medical Affairs generates enormous value. Every day, Medical Science Liaisons have high-quality scientific conversations with clinicians who shape practice, influence peers, and test evidence against reality. Few functions in pharma have this level of access, trust, and depth. And yet, much of the potential value from these interactions is quietly lost. Not because MSLs … [Read more...]
How to Thrive as an MSL in 2026: From Scientific Expert to Driver of Change
Medical Affairs is still often confused about its role, particularly when it comes to initiatives that may result in more patients being prescribed a company’s medicines. Too many assume this is “promotion” and therefore not Medical Affairs territory. In reality, Medical Affairs is best placed to engage with the HCP community to co-develop new ways of working that improve … [Read more...]
Stuck in the Middle: Why Measuring Medical Affairs Impact Matters More Than Ever
Medical Affairs is a tough job. You’re not quite clinical, not quite commercial—but somehow expected to support both. You're meant to bring scientific rigour and credibility to the organisation, while also enabling uptake and positioning products for success. You’re there before launch, during launch, and long after. And yet… you’re rarely the one credited with making the … [Read more...]
Stop the Long Advisory Board Meetings—Start Creating Value Instead
Why Traditional Advisory Boards No Longer Work Medical affairs teams and MSLs often rely on advisory boards to gain insights from clinicians and KOLs. But let’s be honest—most traditional advisory boards are too long, too formal, and too inefficient. Clinicians arrive at a meeting, only to see an agenda and a set of predetermined questions for the first time. The … [Read more...]
The Power of Patient Stories in Medical Communications
Healthcare professionals are regarded as practicing evidence-based medicine, with their decisions firmly rooted in data and objectivity. But like everyone else, doctors are human and subject to the influence of habit and the comfort of the familiar. Even the most compelling data is not necessarily enough to shift established practices, especially when those practices are … [Read more...]