In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Maria Abunto to discuss the impact of competitive intelligence within medical affairs and its significance for Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs). They define the concept and discuss various methods and tools for intelligence gathering, emphasizing compliance and the role of competitive intelligence in decision-making and scientific discussions. Challenges in intelligence gathering and the importance of cross-functional collaboration are explored, alongside ethical considerations and potential collaborations with competitors. The conversation offers advice for new MSLs, discussing the role of AI and digital health, and encourages MSLs to adopt an analytical mindset.

(0:00) Introduction of Maria Abunto

(2:10) Sponsor: Fierce Pharma Week

(3:23) Defining competitive intelligence in medical affairs and its importance for MSLs

(6:26) Methods and tools for competitive intelligence gathering

(10:22) Compliance in competitive intelligence

(13:24) Competitive intelligence in decision making and scientific discussions

(18:40) Challenges and cross-functional collaboration in intelligence gathering

(23:34) Ethical considerations and collaborations with competitors

(26:54) Advice for new MSLs and the role of AI and digital health

(29:02) Thinking like an analyst and episode closing