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Close up of pharmaceutical sales representative presenting new medication to doctor in medical building, shaking hands.

What does a Specialist Pharmaceutical Representative do?

Are you someone who thrives on motivation and is driven by results? If so, the role of a Specialist Pharmaceutical Representative might be the perfect fit for you.

Before we cover the day-to-day tasks, let’s clarify the difference between a Pharmaceutical Sales Specialist and a Representative role. Many entry-level representatives seek a speciality role, but it is not an easy task to step into one. First, you may need to work in a Primary Care Physician call point role (PCP). This is a great role to begin your pharmaceutical career.

A Specialty Pharmaceutical Sales Representative, also may be known as an Account Manager, oversees multiple facets of their territory, including physician offices, pharmacies, reimbursement, and medical billing coding. The different specialties might include, Rare Disease, Oncology, Dermatology, Gastroenterology, and Hep C. However, there's more complexity to this role.

These skilled professionals are highly sought after for their in-depth knowledge of specialty pharmaceutical products and therapeutic areas. As the demand for these rises due to factors such as an aging population, advancements in biotechnology, and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, the value of these professionals continues to grow.

Now that we’ve covered the fundamentals of the role, let’s go into the details and explore what a career at IQVIA could look like for you.

What is the job description of a pharmaceutical sales rep specialist?

1. Promoting and selling specialty pharmaceutical products within a territory

Specialty pharmaceutical sales reps are entrusted with the promotion of specialized products and therapeutic areas or disease states. This expertise often entails covering a broader geographic territory compared to roles focused on primary care practices.

Within their designated territory, they drive volume and market share growth for assigned pharmaceutical products. By achieving tangible sales outcomes, they contribute significantly to their organization's overall success while enhancing patient access to life-changing medications.

These professionals serve as the essential bridge between healthcare providers and patients, ensuring that innovative treatments and medications reach those in need. Acting as the conduit for product adoption from the office to the patient, they educate healthcare providers on cutting-edge pharmaceuticals and therapeutic advancements.

2. Building and maintaining relationships with healthcare professionals

Specialty Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives go beyond traditional sales roles. They nurture strong relationships with institutional and office-based customers, offering invaluable support and educational resources on product administration and patient management.

As the industry transitions from healthcare to life care, these representatives play a crucial role in tailoring solutions to meet the unique needs of healthcare providers and patients alike. By establishing themselves as a trusted partner, they are positioned as catalysts of change, driving positive outcomes and improving patients’ lives.

3. Staying informed about product information and therapeutic areas

It’s estimated that the value-based care market could be on track to hit $1 trillion in enterprise value. With patient outcomes taking precedence, sales reps play a key role in educating healthcare professionals about the clinical benefits and economic value of specialty drugs.

Developing a nuanced understanding of the local landscape is essential for Specialty Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives, especially in areas governed by managed healthcare systems. This involves delving deep into the intricacies of the healthcare ecosystem within their assigned geography, including factors such as payer dynamics, formulary coverage, reimbursement policies, and competitive market forces.

4. Conducting product presentations and educational seminars

Specialty Pharmaceutical Sales Reps undertake the crucial task of delivering presentations and educational sessions to physicians and other healthcare professionals. These presentations typically occur in office-based settings, where representatives can engage directly with healthcare providers and convey the value proposition of their products.

Through informative product presentations and educational programs, they facilitate knowledge transfer and ultimately shape prescribing practices among healthcare professionals.

Why IQVIA?

At IQVIA, we're not just seeking any Specialty Pharmaceutical Sales Reps - we're searching for experienced, results-driven individuals who embody our corporate values of: Client Focused, Results Driven, Teamwork, Flawless Execution, and Integrity.

With a steadfast commitment to improving patients' lives, we recognize that our employees are the cornerstone of our mission's success. That's why we provide a supportive and dynamic work environment where you can thrive and make a meaningful impact.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and contribute to transformative healthcare solutions, look no further than IQVIA. Explore our Specialist Pharmaceutical Rep opportunities and join us in making a difference in patients' lives.

Or hear Jo’s story of life as a Pharmaceutical Sales Rep at IQVIA.

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