Note from the Commissioner
As we go into the final quarter of 2018 I note that the PAAB has been having a pretty good year to date. On the operations side we have received a record number of submissions and we have operated with record efficiency in turning them around. We have a wonderful staff who gets things done and I am very proud of their accomplishment this year.
During the mid-year we conducted a survey to ask clients how the implementation of the new code format went and if there are suggestions for improvement. The survey showed 80% awareness of the new code format. Suggestions included improving the search function on the code app and a request to provide a PDF version that could be used in print format. We have implemented the PDF version and it is available on the PAAB website. We are looking into options to improve the search function. Thanks to all who replied to the survey. We listen, we learn, we improve.
The 2018 national workshops will be held November 20 in Montreal and November 22 in Toronto. Jon Gwillim of CreateHealth IO has been working tirelessly on organizing and creating awareness of the event to enhance registration numbers. It is a great learning opportunity to better understand the PAAB Code, meet the PAAB staff and learn about exciting new developments in pharmaceutical promotion. Check out the agenda and speaker lineup on www.paab.ca.
The Board has been discussing options, with respect to product promotion, regarding the PAAB helping Health Canada deal with the opioid crisis. Health Canada has put in a lot of time and effort this year trying to find solutions.
The board has also been in discussion with the Canadian Animal Health institute regarding the PAAB being contracted to providing opinions on complaints that have not been resolved between their members. This may start in 2019.
On a final note, this will be my final note as commissioner of the PAAB. I have announced my retirement to the PAAB directors and it will take effect January 1, 2019. I have enjoyed the privilege of being the PAAB commissioner since 1998 and it is time to move on. Thank you to everybody who has helped the PAAB be successful over the past 20 years.
Sincerely,
Ray Chepesiuk
PAAB Commissioner
