SCOPE FOR DOCTORS IN PHARMA-WHAT, WHY, HOW

 SCOPE FOR DOCTORS IN PHARMA-WHAT, WHY, HOW

Are you wondering how doctors get jobs in the pharmaceutical industry? What kind of work do they do?

Steve Jobs once said: ‘If to- day were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?’

What is a Pharma company?

A pharma company can be defined as:

‘a commercial business for research, development, marketing and/or distribution of drugs, most commonly in healthcare sector.’

A good career opportunity will utilise a person’s strength and negate his weaknesses. For example, A physician who does not prefer private practice may be extremely successful and happy working in a start-up biotechnology company. A self check and assessment is the foundation for a suitable job.

What positions in pharma are available to doctors?

There are many varied roles and positions available for doctors in pharma sector:

• Research related 

• Clinical trial coordinator, clinical research associate

• Pharmacovigilance officer

• Medical writer or medical reviewer

• Regulatory affairs manager

• Drug safety roles

• Work in regulatory services

• There is even a specialist training pathway in pharmaceutical medicine, which is not necessarily widely known about by many doctors

Where can I work?

• Big pharma- ‘Big pharma’ is a term used to describe global pharmaceutical companies who have growing influence over the practice of medicine worldwide. Examples Cipla, Ranbaxy.

• Small pharma- Doctors working for small pharma have in-depth knowledge of fewer products while those working for big pharma companies have a more exposure in varied products.

• Specialised medical devices companies - These companies develop devices, diagnostic aids and healthcare technology. Example Philips, GE Healthcare.

Why should a doctor work in pharma industry?

• They can aid in development of newer therapeutics.

• They can give invaluable inputs on medical and ethical aspects.

• Doctors can develop managerial and leadership professional skills.

• Working in pharma would mean learning in a fast paced environment.

• Greater scope to achieve a better work life balance.

What skills do doctors need in pharma setting?

Because they have an aptitude for:

• academic achievement

• continuous learning

• managing challenging tasks

• improving healthcare

• working effectively and sensitively 

How can I improve my chances of getting into pharma industry?

• Make your Linked in profile and connect with people in the industry.

• Check out the useful tips and job opportunities posted in various job portals.

• Reach out to pharmaceutical physicians on LinkedIn, connect with them and gain a better understanding of the job

• portfolio.

• Narrow down the list of desirable companies and visit their vacancy sections and post your resume on eligible profiles.

Career Guidance-

 ClinoSol Research Pvt Ltd offers clinical research training and career support to fresh graduates, postgraduates.

References-

1. Ulster Med J 2011;80(3):176.

2. So you want to be a Pharmaceutical Physician? 2. http://asco.org/edbook.

3. No Decision Is Final: Career Planning and Career Transitions 3.

4. https://womeninpharmacareers.com/how-physicians-get-jobs-in-the-pharmaceutical-industry.

 

By :-

Ruchita Bali