From what I know (remember that more than any other subject, I am a student of humanity), the drug reps do a similar business with the doctors. Quiet favors and gifts are easily exchanged under the guise of 'marketing tools', as well as plenty of free sample packs to give out (and charge a nominal fee on their patients' bills).
I used to own a design firm, specializing in home design. I was approached by salesmen for every type of home product you could imagine. My philosophy was simple. I would sell my recommendation, but for a price that could not be measured in dollars... proof. I required proof of the quality of their product, and informed my customers that should they have any problems with any firm or product I recommended, they should report it to me. I would resolve it to their satisfaction or that recommendation would be removed.
Strangely, that price seemed to be very high. I recommended maybe 5% of those who approached me.
It cost me in immediate cash, yes, but it paid off
in customer referral and retention. And I slept good at night. But to keep this thread slightly on topic
this is exactly why I have precious little sympathy for the drug companies. Besides, my mother does
better by walking 5 minutes every day than with all those drugs. And it's cheaper. TheRedneck
