AMA guide for media reporting on "open payments" data release

Media should verify the accuracy of data; understand the context of financial relationships between physicians and industry when reporting on open payments data

| 6 Min Read

The American Medical Association (AMA) is committed to transparency and supports the release of data that can help improve quality of care for patients, including information about physician's financial interactions with the industry which could help promote understanding and trust and strengthen the patient-physician relationship. For that reason, the AMA supported the Sunshine Act when it was passed by Congress. However, because of issues with the implementation of the law, the AMA believes that certain safeguards are needed to ensure the information is depicted correctly and in context to be useful for patients and fair to physicians. Thus, the AMA strongly encourages media to consider the following in their coverage to ensure data is indeed presented in an accurate and informative way to help patients understand and interpret the information correctly.

Full press statement available when you sign in

Sign in to the AMA website to get the full version of this press statement. 

AMA membership has its advantages

  • Be a part of the nation's largest physician organization
  • Play a role in shaping the future of health care
  • Enjoy exclusive perks and savings

Not a member? Become a member now.

 

FEATURED STORIES

Magnifying glass

Making payers’ prior authorization data easier to access, understand

| 4 Min Read
Patient smiles at healthcare worker

Building a strong primary care physician workforce

| 7 Min Read
Row of figures with one called out by an exclamation point

Physician-lawyer on private practice HR: Here’s how to hire—and fire

| 5 Min Read
Mohamad Mokadem, MD, featured on "Health vs. Hype" AMA podcast

9 things that patients should know about gut health

| 5 Min Read