Advanced Insight Generation Strategies in Medical Affairs with Brant Jarrett

Insight generation is one of the most debated functions in Medical Affairs. Everyone agrees it matters, but the infrastructure, roles, and processes behind it vary widely from organization to organization.

In this episode of OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast, host Scott Thompson sits down with Brant Jarrett (Head of Field Medical at Mallinckrodt) to examine what it actually takes to build a high-functioning insight generation program. They cover the case for a dedicated Medical Insight Lead role (a function specifically accountable for capturing, synthesizing, and routing field-generated insights back into strategy, rather than treating insight capture as a side task for field teams), the operational complexity of multi-channel data collection, the feedback loops that keep field teams engaged, and how AI is beginning to reshape how insights are gathered, analyzed, and reported. If your insight program feels more reactive than strategic, this conversation will help you see the path forward.

Key Takeaways:

• Strategic planning is foundational. Effective insight generation doesn't happen organically; it requires intentional program design, defined processes, and organizational alignment before any data collection begins.
• A dedicated Insights Lead changes the equation. Having a role specifically accountable for the insight function, not just field teams submitting data on the side, meaningfully improves the quality and consistency of what gets captured.
• Multi-channel collection is no longer optional. Insights drawn from a single source have limited utility. A MAPS survey of Medical Affairs professionals found that only 26% of organizations systematically collect insights from scientific literature, and just a quarter from social media, leaving most programs reliant on a narrow set of channels.
• Feedback loops sustain field engagement. When MSLs and field teams see their insights used and acknowledged, participation improves. Closing the loop functions as an operational lever, and it takes real, ongoing effort to sustain.
• Showcasing results builds organizational credibility. Demonstrating the tangible impact of insights on strategy, on planning, and on cross-functional decisions is what earns Medical Affairs a seat at the table.
• AI is a tool, not a replacement. Brant addresses the evolving role of AI in processing and reporting insights, while reinforcing that human judgment remains essential in interpreting what the data means.

Resources Mentioned

MAPS Webinar: Putting the AI into Innovative Medical Affairs Teams: Referenced by Brant in the context of AI's growing role in Medical Affairs workflows. Available via the Medical Affairs Professional Society.

Three Skills Medical Insight Leads Must Master: An Acceleration Point blog post that complements this episode's focus on the Insight Lead role, recommended reading for teams building or refining this function. Read it here.

About Our Guest

Brant Jarrett is Head of Field Medical at Mallinckrodt. He brings deep operational expertise to the design and execution of insight generation programs, with a focus on strategic planning, cross-functional collaboration, and preparing field teams for emerging technologies.

Connect with Brant on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brant-jarrett-636a1435/

FAQ

What is a Medical Insight Lead in Medical Affairs?
A Medical Insight Lead is a role dedicated specifically to capturing, synthesizing, and routing field-generated insights into strategic decision-making, rather than leaving insight collection as an informal add-on to field teams' other responsibilities.

Why does multi-channel insight collection matter?
Insights drawn from only one channel, such as field visit notes, provide a narrower view than combining multiple sources like scientific literature, social listening, and cross-functional feedback. A MAPS survey found many organizations still rely on a narrow set of channels, which limits the reliability of the insights that reach strategy.

How does AI fit into Medical Affairs insight generation?
Brant Jarrett describes AI as a tool for processing and reporting insights faster, not a replacement for the judgment MSLs and Medical Affairs teams apply when interpreting what the data actually means.

Why do feedback loops matter for field teams?
When MSLs and field teams can see that their submitted insights are used and acknowledged, their participation in insight generation improves over time.

Who is Brant Jarrett?
Brant Jarrett is Head of Field Medical at Mallinckrodt, where he leads insight generation strategy and field team development.

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About OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast

OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs.

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