CASE AND COMMENTARY: PEER-REVIEWED ARTICLE How Should the US Federal Government Oversee Clinicians’ Relationships With Industry?

Abstract

Many clinicians, including those who work in government, experience potential clashes between their professional responsibilities and personal interests that can create conflicts of interest (COIs). Some clinicians might assert that their personal stakes do not influence their professional actions, but data suggest otherwise. This commentary on a case suggests that COIs must be acknowledged with sincerity and managed such that they are eliminated or, at least, credibly mitigated. Moreover, policies and procedures that guide responses to clinicians’ COIs must be in place before clinicians assume roles in government. Without external accountability and respect for the limits of self-regulation, clinicians’ capacity to reliably promote the public interest without bias could be compromised.