The “Diabetes Implementation Guidelines” were developed by the MEDEC Diabetes Committee. The new set of standards adopted by the diabetes device companies was developed as an appendix to the MEDEC Code of Conduct. The MEDEC Code was developed by MEDEC for its members, but is also intended to provide guidance to all medical device companies in Canada.

The Guidelines define and provide direction for a broad range of relations between the blood glucose monitor companies and the healthcare professionals (“HCPs”) with whom they interact.  These can include physicians, nurse educators, diabetes clinic administrators, clinical researchers, pharmacists and their employees.  The Guidelines address activities such as cash payments for product recommendations, sponsorship of health industry events and conferences, contracting consultants and entertainment of HCPs. Enforcement procedures are also included.

The Diabetes Guidelines were approved by the Diabetes Committee on April 21st, 2006 and subsequently by the MEDEC Board of Directors.  Each company will implement a training and certification process with their existing sales, marketing and customer service employees.  Future employees in these areas will also be trained and certified with respect to the MEDEC Code and the Guidelines.