Key Topic 1 - Subtopic 1: Press Releases

AstraZeneca has established a clear framework for review of press releases. When one or more of the following conditions are met, a press release requires global approval:

  • Information is of material/financial significance to AZ.
  • Information is of strategic importance to the Global and US brand team.
  • Global data are presented at US Congresses.
  • Global data are published in US publications.

Global material may be adapted and approved for National distribution.

Remember that information made available via the internet and international newswires may result in international availability of material intended for national distribution. Press releases should therefore prominently state the intended audience and this should include a geographic description.

Generally press releases and press packs fall into three categories depending on who they are intended for:

  • Medical press materials
  • Consumer press materials
  • Business press materials

These are some of the items that will need Nominated signatory approval as part of a ‘press pack’.
Click on each for more information.

  • Backgrounder
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    Backgrounder

    Media Backgrounders are important items of information. Typically a press release focuses on a single event or a single study. The backgrounder provides valuable context. It is often the main document that can provide the balanced efficacy and safety data about the product to ensure that the data presented in the main press release have additional context. Backgrounders should be accurate, balanced, etc. As with all media materials, backgrounders must be approved prior to release.

  • B roll
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    B roll

    In most countries it is acceptable to provide a library of resources for journalists. This might include "B-Rolls" (Background Videos) and other useful reference items for journalists, such as pack shots, patient information leaflets and study summaries. It should be noted that providing pack shots to consumer media is usually considered promotional and not allowed.
    Resource information should be factual and not promotional in tone or content.
    In some countries it is acceptable to make this resource information available from a corporate or national website.

  • Case studies
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    Case studies

    In some countries it is acceptable to include quotes from patients in a press release. It may also be of interest to the journalist to provide a "patient story" to help bring the article to life.

 

Patients should be briefed and contracted in a similar way to HCPs.

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