FAQs
How can we help you?
1. Is the information I submit in a complaint secure?
Yes, the ACMA takes the security of your information very seriously. We understand that submitting a complaint may involve sensitive information, and we take all necessary measures to protect your privacy. To ensure the security of your information, the ACMA uses the latest encryption technology to safeguard your data when submitting complaints. In addition to encryption, the ACMA also has strict policies and procedures in place to protect your information once recieved.
2. How long do you keep the information I submit on file?
The ACMA will keep all information on file for at least 15 years from the date of submission.
3. How do I file a complaint against a company?
Click on the File a Complaint tab located on the Home page.
4. I want to leave a review on a company, is that the same as a complaint?
No, reviews are not considered to be the same as complaints. You should file a complaint when you have been part of or witnessed an inappropriate interaction between a representative of a pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device or diagnostic company with a healthcare provider or their staff. All complaints made must be accurate and truthful to ensure the integrity of the complaint portal and to avoid investing time into fake complaints. This will take time away from real complaints that need attention.
5. If ACMA works with pharmaceutical companies, how can it ensure fairness in handling complaints?
The ACMA’s value is based on our neutral position in the industry. While we provide accreditation and certification of pharmaceutical industry professionals, this is a fee for service model. Unlike other organizations, where pharmaceutical companies pay an active membership fee, ACMA does NOT have this model. Therefore, the ACMA acts as a liaison between healthcare providers and pharamaceutical companies to promote trustworthy interactions and resolve disputes. Ultimately, the purpose is to ensure patient care is not compromised due to inappropriate or unethical behaviors from pharmaceutical company representatives.
6. I have a complaint against a company that is not pharmaceutical, biotechnology, diagnostic or medical device company. can I file a complaint using this portal?
No. The ReportPharma.Org portal is strictly for filing complaints on interactions you have had with pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, or diagnostic companies.
7. I currently work with a pharmaceutical company and have been made aware that several complaints have been filed against our company. What should I do about it?
Please contact the ACMA at info@acmainfo.org to discuss your options in addressing these complaints and ways to improve compliance.
8. What does the ACMA do with the information provided in complaints?
Although the ACMA does not have any policing power, the ACMA believes it has the responsibility to report this information to the proper authorities such as government agencies or the companies involved in the complaint to ensure that prompt action is taken to avoid these circumstances in the future. Most importantly, ensuring that patient care is not compromised in anyway due to unethical behaviors by pharmaceutical companies.
9. My healthcare institution gets visits from both pharmaceutical sales representatives and medical science liaisons (MSLs). What is the difference between the two roles and can I report unethical behavior by both MSLs and pharmaceutical sales representatives?
The difference between pharmaceutical sales representatives and MSLs is that pharmaceutical sales representatives are visiting doctors to not only educate but sell them on the benefits of using their particular product. They are incentivized based on their sales results. However, MSLs do NOT have any sales goals per se and are there to educate only as well as provide more in depth scientific and clinical information to healthcare providers. You can certainly report unethical behavior that occurred by both MSLs and pharmaceutical sales representatives.
10. What does the ACMA do besides handling complaints by healthcare providers and their staff against pharmaceutical companies?
The Accreditation Council for Medical Affairs (ACMA) is the first accrediting body for the pharmaceutical industry. The ACMA certifies and accredits pharmaceutical industry professionals such as medical affairs/MSL professionals, pharmaceutical sales representatives, field reimbursement specialists as well as provide certification in specific areas such as pharmaceutical industry compliance. To learn more about what the ACMA does, click here.