Pfizer joining other large drug makers in disclosing payments to doctors

The Wall Street Journal (2/10, Johnson) reports, "Pfizer Inc. said Monday that it will become the latest drug maker to publicly disclose the payments it makes to doctors, as the industry has come under fresh fire for its undue influence and could face toughened legislation.The New York drug maker follows Eli Lilly & Co., Merck & Co. and GlaxoSmithKline PLC in pledging its commitment to transparency.Pfizer will report all payments to doctors of more than $500 for consulting and speaking arrangements and will also make public the money it pays them to participate in its clinical trials."

The piece notes that Congress is considering mandating this type of disclosure, and paints the move on the part of the drug industry as part of an effort to "clean up its image."

Bloomberg News (2/10, Pettypiece) adds that Pfizer made its announcement "amid criticism from Congress over the ties between the medical profession and drug companies.The payments to practicing physicians and other health-care providers, as well as to scientists, academic institutions and research centers, will appear on Pfizer's Web site, the New York- based company said today in a statement."

The AP(2/10, Johnson) runs similar coverage.