Has anyone else had a problem with being unable to contact reps over the holiday? Drug reps aren't really a big deal, but my wholesaler rep has been out for 3 weeks with no alternative contact.

Does anyone else's rep do this? Do they give you an alternative contact? Customer Service just isn't cutting it when I need specific issues resolved...

City, State: Teaching hospital

Years as a Buyer: 2

Colleen

Many reps take upto three weeks to relax and do not work towards the years end.

I am sorry you feel pain but I am sure by the time you read this your rep will be back.

I make it a habit to hound my reps around thanksgiving asking them about their Decemeber schedule. With ASHP 2007 being in Las Vegas around the first week of December, it just got crazy for the the reps in my area.

Hope this helps.

You're correct in stating that reps do take extended time off during the holidays. But most reps I've dealt with have given me not only sufficient warning, but provide a backup person to contact in case of emergency.

Don't publish this part You have my permission to tear that rep a new one.

Name of Facility: Summerdale Enterprises, Inc.

City, State: Publishing

Years as a Buyer: 30+

Just don't publish this whole thread... haha

I spoke with my DOP yesterday and we're going to discuss this issue with this rep when they come in for the quarterly QBR meeting.

Not only did I get ZERO notice (an e-mail would have been nice...) I also got NO alternative contact besides Customer Service. They're helpful with some things, but there's a reason there are reps - because CS can't always help or get done what needs to get done. This has been the most aggrevating 3 weeks!!!

They lock you into new contracts, new products, etc. (not always my decision, unfortunately) and then they leave you high and dry. It just amazes me how many people in high positions fall for the fluff and can't see through it!

City, State: Teaching hospital

Years as a Buyer: 2

You may want to give your rep a copy of this article. It's called "How to Lose a Rep in Ten Ways", a 10-step program reps do to sabotage their careers. It was at one time used by Cardinal as part of their new rep orientation, and might be useful in your situation.
The link is Here

Name of Facility: Summerdale Enterprises, Inc.

City, State: Publishing

Years as a Buyer: 30+

I tried the link - it doesn't work.

The article is in the PPO reprints page on the web site. The reprints are toward the bottom of the page.

Hope it helps.

Name of Facility: Summerdale Enterprises, Inc.

City, State: Publishing

Years as a Buyer: 30+