The American College of Cardiology recently signed a 5 year partnership with the non-profit Cardiovascular Research Foundation. On the surface, this seems a natural mix-a group of cardiologists collaborating with an academic not for profit research foundation. Yet, a US Senator has opened an investigation for potential conflicts of interest regarding the ties between them and the medical device community. It’s an ongoing saga of financial entanglements between doctors and either pharmaceutical companies and medical device manufacturers that’s drawing Congressional attention. This time, Wisconsin Democratic Senator Herb Kohl is looking into the relationship, especially the financial aspects of the partnership.
According to the Minneapolis Star Tribune, the relationship may underscore a potential conflict. The Star Tribune reports, “Noting that the foundation receives funding from a variety of medical device manufacturers, ‘the potential for this partnership to influence clinical practice raises questions concerning the continued impartiality of your organization,’ Kohl wrote ACC President Dr. Douglas Weaver in a July 22 letter. A conference organized by CRF annually counts Fridley-based Medtronic Inc. and Boston Scientific Corp. as sponsors.”
Last year, Kohl co-sponsored legislation requiring pharmaceutical and medical device companies to list any financial contributions, payments, or gifts made to physicians.
Congressional oversight and regulation of these relationships is a good thing for consumer safety. The public has a right to know the relationships doctors have with drug companies and/or medical device manufacturers. Transparency can only protect consumers from undo influence as well as keep the medical community focused on patient safety rather than the corporate bottom line.