Industry Relations and Conflict of Interest (COI)
The relationship between professional medical societies and industry, specifically the pharmaceutical and medical device industries, has come under increasing scrutiny. The chief concern is that industry may influence medical society activities in ways that could compromise optimal patient care or undermine the reputation of the profession.
The SVS Management of Relationships with Industry and Conflict of Interest Policy were adopted by the SVS Board of Directors in 2010 to assure that the Society follows principles of transparency, full disclosure and maintenance of appropriate barriers between industry transactions and programmatic decisions. Each year the Society’s Conflict of Interest Committee conducts a review of all SVS activities to assure that the Society’s programs and operations comply with the Guidelines. The 2014-15 review found SVS in full compliance.
Twenty-six percent of SVS operating revenue for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2015 was derived from industry support. Sixteen percent was from industry support for education, research, and the PSO; the remaining 10 percent was from industry exhibits and advertising at the Vascular Annual Meeting. At 26 percent, operating revenue from industry support to SVS is below the 30 - 50 percent estimated for many professional medical associations.