Relationships Between Manufacturers and Physicians will be More Closely Scrutinized, not Just in Orthopedics

Implications: This article discussed the Federal investigation into payments made by orthopedic implant manufacturers and physicians who use these products. While there are certainly appropriate consulting arrangements, these can be easily abused and there will be more investigations, not just in orthopedics. 

Analysis: Orthopedic companies and their consulting relationships with orthopedic surgeons is only the first of what may be many investigations into payment arrangements between manufacturers and physicians. This appears very similar to the hospital investigations from a few years ago that looked into payments to medical directors as well as payments associated with physicians moving to the hospital and receiving office support etc.  Many of these were seen as "crossing the line" and were deemed to be kickbacks for referrals.  All companies will have to be sure the agreements they have with consulting physicians are for real work and appropriate dollar value as well as address other legal issues.

I expect other manufacturers of medical devices beyond orthopedics to be looked into as well.