In a recent circular, the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Pakistan has imposed a ban on foreign trips for doctors and hospital staff sponsored by pharmaceutical companies. The circular, titled ‘Visits Abroad,’ outlines that all requests for Ex-Pakistan leave forwarded to the Ministry must be accompanied by an affidavit from the concerned officers stating that their foreign visits are not for attending conferences/seminars and are not sponsored by any private company or donor.

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Additionally, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has introduced a new code of conduct for pharmaceutical companies and medical professionals, authorized by the federal government. The new regulations prohibit pharmaceutical companies from covering the travel expenses of doctors’ families and others. Doctors are required to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their institution to receive reimbursement for foreign travel expenses, as outlined in the notification.

These measures are aimed at addressing concerns about the potential influence of pharmaceutical companies on healthcare professionals and ensuring transparency in interactions between healthcare providers and the pharmaceutical industry.