DOCTORS REFORM SOCIETY

Media Release

Wednesday, 26 July 2006

GOVERNMENT MUST PAY FOR DOCTORS’ ‘FREE LUNCH’

“Reports of doctors dining out as guests of drug companies at a cost of $200 per doctor are of deep concern,” said Dr Tim Woodruff, President, Doctors Reform Society. “The effect of drug company sponsorship of ‘educational’ events is well documented to influence doctors’ prescribing habits to the benefit of the company’s sales but not necessarily to the benefit of patients.”

“Ultimately, the effect of such drug company largesse is to increase the costs of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and the direct costs to patients, and to lead to inappropriate use of drugs, all to the detriment of the health of sick Australians,” said Dr Woodruff

“Self regulation of the pharmaceutical industry is a joke. It hasn’t worked to date and it will not work in the future”, said Dr Woodruff.

“What is needed is for the Government to oversee the funding of independent, unbiased doctor education about drugs. At the moment the Government spends $20 million per year whilst the industry spends $1 billion,” said Dr Woodruff. “Increased Government investment will save money and results in patients being treated in the best possible manner”.

Dr Tim Woodruff

President

Doctors Reform Society

For further information please contact the Doctors Reform Society during business hours

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