Dr. Thomas Falasca, June 7, 2019
The American Pain Society board, on May 20, suggested to its members that it cease operations in the face of legal liability connected with the opioid crisis and its funneling of funds from pharmaceutical companies, including Purdue, the manufacturer of OxyContin.
Patient advocacy groups and professional organizations have both a need for money and the appearance of impartiality. This makes them attractive targets for organizations with money and private agendas. Patient advocacy and professional organizations have an obligation to the public and to their memberships to be judicious in their associations. Failing this, they should be accountable.