Inadequate conflict of interest policies in Australian universities fail to safeguard medical students from commercial influence, according to a recent study. 

A review has assessed conflict of interest policies across Australian medical schools and discovered significant shortcomings, with policies often not addressing medicine-specific issues and varying inconsistently between institutions.

Notably absent were policies concerning contact with sales representatives, industry funding for on-site sponsored education, and the use of free samples. 

The researchers emphasise the need for tailored conflict of interest policies specifically designed for Australian medical schools, given the intricate relationship between medical practice, education, and industry. 

The study revealed that financial relationships with the industry can adversely affect medical education and clinical decision-making, leading to inappropriate prescribing and overdiagnosis. 

Out of the 155 policies analysed, only two were specific to medical schools, while the remaining 153 were university-wide policies that lacked adequate detail. 

Furthermore, none of the universities or medical schools required academics to disclose conflicts of interest to their students. 

The study highlights the urgency for national conflict of interest guidelines and policies to protect students from industry influence during their formative years.

More details are accessible here.