On the need for probity when physicians interact with industry

Physicians are expected to practice scientifically sound medicine, to be critical of industry claims, and to be immune from making clinical decisions biased by commercial sponsorship and marketing. The reality, as argued in this article, is that much of medical research, in its conduct and reporting, is distorted by commercial interests and that physician decision-making remains vulnerable to the effects of subliminal commercial promotion which has the potential to create conflicts of interest, or perceptions thereof, and undermine public trust. Research is presented that may encourage physicians to view recently revised Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) guidelines on the ethical relationships between the medical profession and industry as an attempt to deal with such conflicts in protecting our authority and standing within the community.