Healthy Skepticism Library item: 1150

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

Weissman JS, Blumenthal D, Silk AJ, Newman M, Zapert K, Leitman R, Feibelmann S.
Physicians report on patient encounters involving direct-to-consumer advertising.
Health Aff (Millwood) 2004 Jan-Jun; Supplment Web Exclus:W4-219-33
http://content.healthaffairs.org/cgi/reprint/hlthaff.w4.219v1

Abstract:

We surveyed a national sample of 643 physicians on events associated with visits during which patients discussed an advertised drug. Physicians perceived improved communication and education but also thought that direct-to-consumer advertising (DTCA) led patients to seek unnecessary treatments. Physicians prescribed the advertised drug in 39 percent of DTCA visits but also recommended lifestyle changes and suggested other treatments. Referring to visits when the DTCA drug was prescribed, 46 percent said that it was the most effective drug, and 48 percent said that others were equally effective. Prescribing DTCA drugs when other effective drugs are available warrants further study.

Keywords:
Advertising/methods* Consumer Participation* Health Services Research Humans Office Visits Physician-Patient Relations* Prescriptions, Drug* Questionnaires Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't United States