US Senators want registry of drug gifts

The US Senate is considering proposals that would require physicians to register gifts from the drug industry, the New York Times reports. The issue has widespread popular support, according to opinion polls. However a spokeswoman for the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) told the Senate's Special Committee on Aging hearing that attempts to regulate gifts at state level have become embroiled in disputes about whether to include drug sample.

Marjorie Powell, the PhRMA's senior assistant general counsel, said: "pharmaceutical marketing plays a critical role in improving patient care and fostering the appropriate use of medicines that helps lower overall health care costs in America. Arming physicians with essential information about the medicines they prescribe undoubtedly benefits patients and advances health care in the USA."

Ms Powell also drew attention to the industry body's Code on Interactions with Healthcare Professionals, which, for example, limits hospitality to more modest levels, for example, pizza instead of lavish banquets in the private dining rooms of expensive restaurants.