Views of Psychiatrists and Trainees on Drug Company Involvement in CME Activities

Abstract

Objective: To report the views of Australasian Psychiatry readers about pharmaceutical industry involvement in CME activities. Method: A discussion paper and fax-back survey form in a previous issue of Australasian Psychiatry sought views on specific areas of possible risk and several different strategic approaches which may be taken. Results: 182 responses were received from a wide cross section of College Fellows. Views on our current strategy (prohibition) were highly polarised and weakly associated with gender, years since fellowship and state. There was strong support for declaration, engagement and education strategies. Conclusions: There is much concern about the issue. Declaration, engagement and education strategies should be further developed.