The Board-Certified Medical Affairs Specialist (BCMAS) certification developed by the Accreditation Council for Medical Affairs (ACMA) remains the only accredited board certification program for Medical Science Liaisons (MSL) and Medical Affairs Professionals. This rigorous certification offers 20 modules of content across various industry topics, such as health economics and outcomes research (HEOR), regulatory affairs, advisory boards, evidence-based medicine, etc. With this wide breadth of information offered, MSLs and medical affairs professionals are able to gain a comprehensive view of the pharmaceutical industry as it relates to medical affairs.
This knowledge allows MSLs and medical affairs professionals to stand out during their job search process, become a trusted industry thought leader that healthcare professionals outside the pharmaceutical industry will trust, and increase their worth in their current job by showcasing their commitment to continued learning.
Since its launch in 2015, there have been graduates from more than 200 pharmaceutical companies, such as Pfizer, Sanofi, Gilead, and Novo Nordisk with dozens of testimonials highlighting the impact BCMAS has had to a graduate’s career.
Besides the content offered through these modules, there are many other perks that BCMAS offers that allow professionals to expand their skills and network.
By enrolling in BCMAS, an individual will be connected with industry leaders who can help guide their career path and will get noticed by recruiters by becoming part of the ACMA Career Database. BCMAS also offers CME/CE credits for MDs, PharmDs, and PhDs.
As board certification becomes increasingly commonplace among medical affairs professionals, it becomes crucial to acknowledge that the pharmaceutical industry is constantly evolving. MSLs and other medical affairs experts strive to stay current with these changes to avoid being left behind.
By increasing their value in the role through a board certification that provides comprehensive knowledge on various functional areas in the industry, professionals are able to prove their worth to current employers and any future employers.