NAS Publication~Conflicts of Interest in Medical Science~Good Read

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Collaborations of physicians and researchers with industry can provide

valuable benefits to society, particularly in the translation of basic

scientific discoveries to new therapies and products. Recent reports and news

stories have, however, documented disturbing examples of relationships and

practices that put at risk the integrity of medical research, the objectivity of

professional education, the quality of patient care, the soundness of

clinical practice guidelines, and the public's trust in medicine.

Conflict of Interest in Medical Research, Education, and Practice provides

a comprehensive look at conflict of interest in medicine. It offers

principles to inform the design of policies to identify, limit, and manage

conflicts of interest without damaging constructive collaboration with industry.

It calls for both short-term actions and long-term commitments by

institutions and individuals, including leaders of academic medical centers,

professional societies, patient advocacy groups, government agencies, and drug,

device, and pharmaceutical companies. Failure of the medical community to take

convincing action on conflicts of interest invites additional legislative

or regulatory measures that may be overly broad or unduly burdensome.

Conflict of Interest in Medical Research, Education, and Practice makes

several recommendations for strengthening conflict of interest policies and

curbing relationships that create risks with little benefit. The book will

serve as an invaluable resource for individuals and organizations committed

to high ethical standards in all realms of medicine.

Sharon Noonan Kramer