MRS to Help EphMRA with Codes and Compliance

Healthcare market research association EphMRA has partnered with the UK's MRS to enhance its Code of Conduct and develop professional standards services for its members; and has joined the international network of associations, GRBN.

The MRS (Market Research Society) will help EphMRA to revise its healthcare-specific Code of Conduct to reflect new data protection and privacy legislation, including GDPR; and will advise it on the expert guidance it offers members looking to interpret and apply the code.

The MRS already provides professional standards to the European Research Federation (EFAMRO), which represents the commercial interests of research agencies at the European level, while counterparts in the Netherlands, Singapore and Australia have adopted the MRS Fair Data trust mark scheme.

GRBN (Global Research Business Network), launched in 2012, seeks to promote and advance the position of research along with regional federations and national associations. MRS Managing Director Debra Harding was one of the leaders in setting up the group.

MRS Chief Executive Jane Frost says: 'Interpreting policy, creating and upholding the highest standards is fundamental to researchers' ability to engage participants and undertake robust and ethical research. This is never more-true than when working in healthcare which relies on access to some of the most personal and sensitive data'. Karsten Trautmann, Merck KGaA and EphMRA President, says the new alliance 'further strengthens the position of EphMRA as the centre of excellence for healthcare market research and business intelligence', adding: 'The landscape of compliance is constantly changing, and our members need to keep up to date in order to ensure they are offering the highest level of service to their clients'.

Web sites: www.mrs.org.uk and www.ephmra.org .