Over the last few years we have heard a lot about "conflict of interest policies" and "disclosure statements." (I must add here that I have been a paid consultant/speaker for just about everybody.)

These policies are prudent and separate medicine from products. In doing so, we can understand—if not eliminate—bias, and we can make our own educated decision on product merits rather than on the tasty meal and plenty of wine. I get this, I really do...

But I have to admit, sometimes I enjoy the company spin. It makes me think, usually pushing me in a direction I had not thought about. It makes me research more and ask "why?" Sometimes I wind up challenging my own foundation; sometimes I challenge theirs.

The problem I have: These policies assume that I make my decisions based on a gifted pen or a salmon fillet.  Does a branded post-it note eliminate my common sense? "Mrs. Jones, I have a post-it here for Paxil. I have no idea why I am prescribing it, and it won't help your red eye, but at least you will be happy." Really?

In the optometry world, we deal with a lot of product ... medicines, contact lens solutions, eye drops, contact lenses, glasses, etc ... and they are ALL branded. Sampling is going away, if it's not gone already. What's next? Will selling product be the next conflict of interest?