Transparency is key. Publicly accessible databases detailing all pharmaceutical lobbying activities, including individual lobbyists and their associated funding, should exist. This allows for independent scrutiny and identification of potential conflicts.
Stricter regulations on gifts and travel expenses provided by pharmaceutical companies to politicians and regulatory officials are necessary. Independent oversight bodies should monitor compliance and enforce penalties for violations. A $10,000 limit per year per official, coupled with a public registry, could foster accountability.
Rotating members of government advisory committees that influence drug approvals ensures fresh perspectives and reduces the possibility of prolonged influence from specific pharmaceutical interests. A three-year term limit for members, combined with random selection from a diverse pool of candidates, offers a viable solution.
Independent research funding for drug efficacy and safety evaluations reduces industry bias. Funding from non-pharmaceutical sources, such as government grants or charitable foundations, strengthens public trust. A publicly available report detailing funding sources for every clinical trial would promote trust.
Financial disclosure requirements for elected officials who receive campaign contributions from pharmaceutical companies should be expanded and strengthened. Detailed disclosure forms, including the exact amount and date of all contributions, are crucial. Independent auditing of these disclosures would further increase accountability.
Strengthening the independence of regulatory agencies like the FDA is crucial. Increased funding and protections against political pressure for these agencies would improve their capacity to prioritize public health over industry interests. Greater transparency in the approval process is also needed.
