International society on thrombosis and haemostasis conflict of interest management and tools : presentation of a case study

Abstract

Management of conflicts of interest (COIs) is a critical element in supporting the mission, core values, and code of conduct of the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH). The ISTH Ethics Committee and Council recently developed clear guidelines and educational materials to help members at all levels appropriately manage COIs. COI refers to the existence of material or intellectual interests outside the ISTH in the fields of thrombosis and hemostasis, hematology, or cardiology that could influence an individual’s actions or decisions in ways not aligned with the ISTH mission or values. The primary measures that can be implemented whenever a COI arises are disclosure, recusal, resignation, or divestment. To better illustrate the nature of COI considerations and the possible application and consequences of each measure, we present the following hypothetical case: “Professor Baker is a recognized expert in platelet physiology, with more than 200 publications as a lead author. He has recently joined the speakers’ bureau of a large pharmaceutical company that is preparing for the launch of a new antiplatelet agent. He was invited to participate in several educational activities related to the introduction of the new agent. In this role, he is expected to prepare written materials and deliver presentations at medical meetings and company-sponsored educational events.”