In the very week in which Patrick Sullivan's article about the fines incurred by drug companies for improper continuing medical education (CME) events appeared,1 we each received a large, 3-kg box full of more prescription pads than we will need between now and our funerals. Every psychiatrist we have talked to has received a similar freebie, including a colleague in another province. There are interleaved advertisements for an antidepressant, as well as a bunch of ads in the holders for the pads.
These pads were not solicited. None of the colleagues we have spoken to want them. One has already had his shredded.
Across the country environmentalists are concerned about the destruction of our forests. Clear-cutting in Nova Scotia has contributed to the collapse of salmon angling in 2 of our most famous rivers and many more of our minor ones. We object to these unsolicited, unwanted pads being sent to us.
When a new formulation of this antidepressant was introduced we, along with many others, were stupid enough to accept an invitation to attend a meeting in Montreal. It was of the kind that, judging by Sullivan's article, would today have led to a fine. It included the best seats for a lavish stage musical. Such was our shame on returning home that it took us about 2 years before we prescribed the drug.
Signatures
Lawrence Buffett
Psychiatrist The Nova Scotia Hospital Sackville, NS
William McCormick
Psychiatrist The Nova Scotia Hospital Sackville, NS
Reference
- 1.Sullivan P. Freebies to MDs targeted as drug industry starts publicizing CME fines. CMAJ 2000;163(6):749.