The ABPI exam is a qualification for current or prospective medical representatives and other people who promote medicines in the UK.
Prior to January 2014 the exam was not formally accredited in the UK education system, however the exam is now accredited by Industry Qualifications. This comprises the Level 3 Certificate in the promotion of prescription medicines and the Level 3 Diploma in the promotion of prescription medicines.
When the accredited exam was introduced, there were some misconceptions around the newer exam. To find out more about the myths surrounding the accredited exam, please click here.
These qualifications examine the skills and knowledge required to promote medicines. They cover different areas divided into units with credit values. In order to receive the Certificate you must achieve 31 credits (made up of four mandatory units), and to receive the Diploma, at least 46 credits (made up of the mandatory units plus two or three disease area units). The Diploma is recognised by the PMCPA as an appropriate examination for medical representatives and the Certificate recognised as appropriate for generic sales representatives (as defined in Clause 16 of the ABPI Code of Practice) .
The ABPI Code of Practice states that medical representatives must take exams for all units within one year of beginning employment in the promotion of medicines to prescribers, and pass all units within two years. This time limit does not apply to candidates not currently employed in the promotion of medicines to prescribers.
Click the links below to find out more information about each qualification.
