 According to a new report from IMS Health, just half of the top 50 pharmaceutical companies use social media to engage patients, and of those, only one does so in a meaningful way. While some reluctance can be attributed to old-school marketing philosophies, a lack of regulatory guidance has been cited as a major factor, but that is about to change. In January, the FDA released long-awaited draft guidance that provides direction on the promotional usage of digital media. So what does it say? Companies are responsible for content they create on sites that they own. Content on third-party sites is subject to regulatory review if the company has any degree of control or editorial influence. Companies are responsible for content generated by their employees. Final guidance is expected this summer and will likely extend to the medical device and diagnostic industries. This is not the definitive social media Bible that some are hoping for, but these guidelines should serve as helpful ground rules for marketers who have been sitting on the social media sidelines. In today's digital world, you can't afford to ignore this powerful and essential communications channel, and we're here to help. Give us a call or visit mslgroup.com.