Here are some general statements about press materials – indicate which you think are true:

• Press backgrounders provide valuable context for a press release
• Press backgrounders do not require nominated signatory approval
• Press materials should be accompanied by the relevant SmPC this is considered good practice
• It is acceptable to provide pack shots, images and videos to the media known as “B roll” such materials are allowable in many countries. However local regulations differ and rules may differ depending on the audience – for example providing pack shots with a consumer press release is generally considered promotion to the public.
• Press material can include product logos this is generally considered too promotional for media materials

Information provided to journalists:

• Can include contact details of spokespersons
• Must be balanced with safety information as well as efficacy
• Should include prescribing information but including the SmPC is considered good practice
• Should state the intended audience and geographic region
• Can be provided via websites

Companies are responsible for:

• All articles written by journalists if they have been sent a company press release about the subject the company is responsible for the release but not the article
• Material provided to journalists by their agencies
• Payments made to journalists participating in a media advisory board
• All statements made by their spokespersons
• Briefing material provided to spokespersons and patients used as case studies

Which of the following are true:

• ‘Newsworthy’ in consumer terms means there must be a significant financial impact there should be a genuine public interest
• Journalists can be used as advisors to the company under the same rules as for advisory boards and use of consultants
• An extreme patient case study could be justified if it was highly newsworthy although an extreme response to treatment might be ‘newsworthy’ it could not be used unless it represented a typical response. Otherwise unfounded hopes could be raised in the public.
• Journalists can be provided with promotional material if they specifically request it
• Press materials can be artworked and printed on glossy paper they can be presented professionally but must not appear branded or promotional in style