Report Slamming FDA May Be Just What The Doctore Ordered for FDA

Implications: The report, while critical of FDA, is more of a slap at Congress than the agency. It may remind Congress that consumers as well as the biotech and pharma industries rely on a healthy FDA. Moreover, it should serve to remind Congress to exercise caution before giving the agency increased regulator responsibility- so that it can first focus on it's core mission.

Analysis: Added attention to FDA shortcomings may increase pressure on Congress to fund the agency at a more appropriate level.

 A stronger FDA is not only good for consumers, but good for the biotech and pharma industries which must rely on a strong, credible, and nimble agency.

It may also remind congress that FDA's budget has not kept up with it's growing mandate.And while increased funding is part of the solution, Congress must also reign in "mission creep." Specifically, efforts to expand the FDA's responsibility would be especially unwise at this time. For instance,  legislation giving FDA authority over tobacco would undermine efforts to strengthen the credibility of the already heavily criticized agency.