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AACE issues statement on physician payments for educational activities
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The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists endorsed a statement declaring that endocrinologists are responsible for the important task of educating other physicians, allied health professionals and patients about the most up-to-date treatments and guidelines in the field.
The association maintains that continuing education in new therapies and devices is essential. Educational presentations should include the scientific background, data and reasoning to support novel medications and devices, according to the association. This information not only allows physicians to better understand proper protocol for use of new treatment options but also improves insight into how best to use older ones. To make this education accessible it must take place in as many settings as possible and when sponsored by industry it operates under very strict rules of conduct, according to the statement. In addition, the association stated:
- There are too few endocrinologists to treat the worsening diabetes and metabolic disease epidemics.
- New therapeutic options and guidelines to treat disease require education for safe, effective use.
- Educational programs, including industry-sponsored, expand the number and types of health professionals who can effectively treat patients with diabetes and metabolic diseases.
In a May 2009 position statement, the association pointed out that legitimate concern about the unprincipled behavior of certain physicians should not prevent the pursuit of medical knowledge to improve patient care.
“There is no inherent conflict of interest in the working relationship of physicians with industry and such work has resulted in many medical advancements and improved health outcomes,” the statement read.
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