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New California bill may keep drug companies from giving doctors gifts
On Thursday, state Senate passed a bill banning drug company payments or gifts to California doctors.
The bill’s rationale is physicians who accept gifts are more likely to prescribe higher-cost, branded drugs rather than generics. Drug companies claim it’s important to get feedback from docs, and to have face-to-face conversations about new medications that help patients. That often involves meals or continuing education.
AirTalk debates SB-790.
Guests:
Emily Rusch, executive director of California Public Interest Research Group (CALPIRG), a consumer rights group in support of SB 790
Paul Howard, director of health policy and senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute