Physicians in training are taught that when ordering tests and prescribing drugs, they should do so based on sound medical evidence, which, by and large, comes from medical journals. But what would be the effect if the evidence in these journals were presented in such a way as to mislead readers? If done cleverly, one might believe that an inferior medication or test was the best medical option. Who would benefit from this? Above all, those with a financial stake in the sale of such tests or drugs. And yet, the implications are serious. Not only could this lead to the provision of substandard care, it also puts at risk the credibility of American research. Is this a problem? This is the question that will be explored in MedRIB.
Learn more about Applied Ethics, Inc.