The relationship between European paediatricians and commerce: Ethical principles in paediatrics working group recommendations. Confederation of European Societies of Paediatrics (CESP)

Abstract

It is important that doctors have an ethically proper relationship with commercial interests. The relationship between paediatricians, paediatric societies and industry is probably healthy. To further the interests of patients it is important that it remains so.

Conclusion This mentionship would be undermined if: there was a perceived conflict of interests between paediatricians, their patients and industry; paediatricians were seen to endorse companies whose marketing and other practices were unethical. It will be enhanced if: paediatricians did not receive individual gain from industry; industrial support for educational and research activities, whether to individuals or institutions, is open, proportionate and accountable.