Doctors wined and dined to promote drugs
They say you shouldn’t look a gift horse in the mouth – but that’s exactly what Australian doctors are being encouraged to do after a new study released today has revealed drug companies are breaching ethical codes by lavishing doctors with promotional items. Conducted by the University of New South Wales, the study surveyed 823 doctors anonymously, with more than half admitting to accepting offers such as overseas travel, food, conferences and office items. One of its authors Dr David Henry says the results are worrying and wants government intervention. AMA President Dr Mukesh Haikerwal disagrees, saying current regulations are adequate. Doctors Reform Society President Dr Tim Woodruff believes Australia has a ‘crazy’ and ‘biased’ system in place, while Brisbane doctor Peter Davoren describes the gifts he regularly receives.