PORTLAND — The Oregon Department of Justice says doctors who are paid by makers of artificial implants must disclose the possible conflict of interest to patients.
The action involves two Salem doctors who agreed to pay $25,000 each to settle a state Justice Department case involving pacemakers and defibrillators.
The Oregonian reports the action is the first of its kind and could set a precedent for disclosing payments to doctors from implant makers. Most hospitals do not require patients to be informed of such payments.
The Justice Department says patients need to know about any possible conflict of interest when a device is selected.
A lawyer for the doctors said the payments were for training and improved patient care.
