Lack of Transparency in Pharmaceutical Industry Payments to Canadian Physicians and Patient Groups

Canada is a laggard when it comes to transparency of transfers of value between the pharmaceutical industry and physicians and patient groups. In most high-income countries, transparency is mandated by the government or required for membership in industry associations. Aside from one attempt by a previous Ontario Liberal government, provincial and federal governments have steered clear of this issue, and the role of Innovative Medicines Canada has been minimal. There is evidence showing that the receipt of payments by physicians and patient groups is associated with actions favourable to the pharmaceutical industry. Companies should have to disclose the payments that they make.