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Medical Representative

The task of the medical representative is to introduce new and promote existing medicine to doctors and pharmacists. He/she discusses the clinical uses and dosages and the pharmacology of these medicines with doctors and pharmacists. He/she also acts as manager of his/her area.
Job Characteristics
  • Liaising for and between medical doctors and his company’s scientists and administrative personnel.


  • Channelling medical doctors’ evaluations of and inquiries about the medicines to the manufacturer.


  • Convincing medical doctors that the company which he/she represents manufactures products that will combat diseases, while ensuring the safety of the patients.


  • Monitoring sales results in his area.


  • Visiting customers regularly on a pre-planned programme.
    • Requirements
Secondary Education
Possession of at least a HIGCSE/IGCSE Grade 12, or equivalent qualification, to follow Pharmaceutical Marketing courses offered by Technikon SA and Unisa.
 
Recommended subjects
Biology, Physical Science and Mathematics (South Africa)

Tertiary Education
No formal tertiary training is provided in Namibia. To become a medical representative, however, it would be beneficial to be a qualified nurse, preferably with experience in the theatre and intensive care unit. Computer experience would be of advantage.

Once a candidate is employed as a medical representative of a company he/she will receive in-service training and attend training courses in South Africa to learn about the work and products of that specific company. The in-service training lasts for a few weeks and is very intensive.

Personality
The prospective medical representative must be a responsible and reliable person with integrity. Since he/she comes in close contact with a lot of people, he/she must have the ability to work independently and have good business- and interpersonal communication skills. Planning and organizational skills are also necessary.

Work Opportunities
The prospective medical representative can be employed at various pharmaceutical companies. There are no self-employment opportunities.

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2007-2008 Careers in Namibia
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