{"id":"4f245da5-b099-4554-beca-c3587aee5e96","slug":"professional-medical-associations-exert-undue-influence-despite-conflicts-of-interest","title":"Professional Medical Associations Exert Undue Influence Despite Conflicts of Interest","authors":["Nancy E. Epstein"],"abstract":"Background: Professional Medical Associations (PMAs) are increasingly scrutinized for their relationships with industry and the potential conflicts of interest that arise from these connections. Previous literature has highlighted the need for PMAs to manage both real and perceived conflicts to maintain their credibility and integrity. The influence of industry funding on PMAs raises concerns about the objectivity of medical guidelines and recommendations. Summary: This editorial reviews the opinions of various authors regarding the undue influence of industry on PMAs and the implications for patient care and medical knowledge. It discusses the historical context of these relationships and the potential for bias in the creation of clinical guidelines. The editorial emphasizes the necessity for PMAs to adopt stringent conflict of interest policies to safeguard the interests of patients and the integrity of medical practice. Conclusion: Professional Medical/Surgical Associations must implement rigorous measures to eliminate conflicts of interest and ensure that their decisions are not unduly influenced by industry ties. This is essential for preserving the trust of the medical community and the public in the guidelines and recommendations provided by these organizations. Keywords: Professional Medical Associations, conflicts of interest, industry influence, medical guidelines, patient care, evidence-based medicine","thumbnailUrl":"https://sni-digital-videos.s3.amazonaws.com/placeholders/specialty/spine.png","publishDate":"2019-08-09T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.25259/SNI_420_2019","categories":["Spine","Editorial"],"fullTextUrl":"http://surgicalneurologyint.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/9567/SNI-10-163.pdf"}