Number: RL34094
Title: Requiring Disclosure of Gifts and Payments to Physicians: State Efforts and a Legal Analysis of Potential Federal Action
Authors: Anna Henning, American Law Division 
Abstract: State measures, media attention, and a recent Senate committee hearing have brought attention to the issue of pharmaceutical companies' gifts and payments to physicians. Examples of gifts and payments mentioned in media reports and at the Senate hearing include meals, honoraria for speaking engagements, and travel expenses for conferences. This report first discusses the arguments for and against a federal requirement that pharmaceutical companies disclose gifts and payments. Next, it briefly outlines the existing American Medical Association (AMA) guidelines to which the requirement's potential opponents refer. It then describes state disclosure laws already in effect. Finally, it analyzes potential legal hurdles to a federal disclosure requirement.
Pages: 13
Date: July 18, 2007