CMS issues final physician sunshine rule

CMS has issued a final rule requiring manufacturers of drugs, devices, and biological and medical supplies to report payments or gifts of $10 or more made to physicians, hospitals and other health care professionals. The rule also requires reporting of physician ownership and investment activities in applicable manufacturers and group purchasing organizations.

The Physicians Payments Sunshine act requires reporting on a yearly basis and also requires reporting of ownership or investment interests of physicians or their immediate family members in these companies.

Data will start being collected on Aug. 1. The final rule exempts speakers and attendees of accredited CME programs; manufacturers of over-the-counter drugs and class I and II medical devices; educational material intended for use by patients; discounts or rebates; and samples for patient use. Physicians will have an opportunity to review and correct their reports before they are posted online.

Additional information is available from CMS.