Behavioral Science & Ethics USMLE Step 1 Practice Question
A pharmaceutical company manufacturing antihypertensive medications invites a resident physician to an all-expenses-paid weekend conference at a luxury resort. The 3-day event includes 3 hours of CME credit, meals valued at $800, and 2 days of recreational activities. The resident has no prior financial relationships with this company. She denies any perceived conflict of interest. Which of the following best describes the primary ethical concern with accepting this invitation?
Answer choices
- AViolation of patient confidentiality
- BConflict of interest that may bias future prescribing decisionsCorrect answer
- CMisuse of hospital resources for personal gain
- DInterference with the resident's duty hours regulations
- EBreach of the physician's duty to provide informed consent
- FFailure to comply with FDA regulations regarding pharmaceutical marketing practices
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