Healthy Skepticism Library item: 5903

Warning: This library includes all items relevant to health product marketing that we are aware of regardless of quality. Often we do not agree with all or part of the contents.

Publication type: Journal Article

Erola JA.
We need dialogue and discussion, not a new Berlin Wall.
CMAJ 1994 Mar 15; 150:(6):955-6

Abstract:

The relationship between the medical community and the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association of Canada has evolved into one in which both constituencies acknowledge that in many instances their areas of interest and points of view will and do differ. Nevertheless, they recognize the importance of dialogue and discussion in matters of mutual concern, and the benefits to be gained through the exchange of ideas and information. One example of this dialogue was the wide nature of consultations undertaken by PMAC during the revisions to its Code of Marketing Practices. Attempts to restrict unduly the access of physicians in training to the pharmaceutical industry will neither enhance their knowledge nor contribute to the health of their patients. Contrary to the inuendo in Dr. Guyatt’s article PMAC does not attempt to influence debate through threats or intimidation. Dr. Guyatt should trust in his colleagues’ abilities to make informed decisions.

Keywords:
*analysis/Canada/McMaster University/Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association of Canada/bioethics/relationship between medical profession and industry/bioethics/relationship between physicians in training and industry/Code of Marketing Practices (Can)/physicians in training/industry perspective/ATTITUDES REGARDING PROMOTION: INDUSTRY/ETHICAL ISSUES IN PROMOTION: LINKS BETWEEN HEALTH PROFESSIONALS AND INDUSTRY/REGULATION, CODES, GUIDELINES: INDUSTRY SELF-REGULATION Canada Drug Industry* Ethics, Professional* Internship and Residency* Interprofessional Relations* Marketing of Health Services*