[General Spine] Medtronic defends payments to physicians

[Justin]

Medtronic defends payments to physicians
The CEO stresses the value of medical devices and of alliances that can improve them.

By JANET MOORE, Star Tribune
Last update: August 27, 2009 - 8:48 PM

At the annual shareholder meeting of Medtronic Inc. Thursday, CEO Bill Hawkins defended the company's longstanding practice of collaborating with physicians, although he acknowledged these paid relationships could pose a conflict of interest...

See the entire article here: StarTribune.com, Minneapolis, MN

[KBear]

I honestly don't see why doctors shouldn't be paid. I understand the potential conflict of intrest. But, on the other hand, if a doctor is investing in a device, they obviously believe that is going to change spine treatment, so I think that is a good thing. Of course, they could be wrong and lose money; but that's the chance they take. I also think when they have money at stake and are in clinical trials, they are probably more careful and thourogh, as they want the device to suceed. I also think they should be paid for their consulting, as they have to make money too. If we want the best of the best surgeons and doctors consulting on these things, these are busy people and what is the incentive to consult and give their opinion if there is nothing in it for them? Just my opinion.