I also believe that if there is conclusive proof that people hid information from the FDA and patients because it may hurt sales, then these people should be held criminally liable and not be allowed to work in the healthcare industry again. The problem with this, however, is that scientific data analysis is not always black and white. It is not always conclusive and sometimes more information is needed.
CEO’s of drug companies have to communicate to everyone within their organizations that patients are more important than profits. They need to make sure that people in the company get a chance to meet with patients and consumers on a regular basis so we can put a face on often faceless market segments. Finally, we all have to have the courage to stand up and say “this is wrong” when we see things that could possible endanger patients, even at the risk of losing our jobs. Linchpins need to make a difference but more importantly they need to be heard.
Well said Rich Meyer!
