An update on the Peter Rost story: Pfizer sent a team of lawyers to grill him on his political activities and who he’s talked with. Not only is it scary to see a company investigate someone for their private political beliefs, it shows everyone just how scared Big Pharma is of reimportation.
This is a medical weblog--a collection of thoughts about medicine, medical training, and health policy--written by a fifth-year medical student.
I recently stopped blogging, as I graduated from medical school and I'm now a physician in my residency training in New York City. But feel free to read and enjoy!
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Peter Rost is a hero – he is, appropriately, following the medical oath “…above all, do no harm”. The industry in which he works is systematicallly committed to maximizing profits, which harms those who are economically denied the medications they produce, and is now doing harm to those who invest in their companies. Follow the long establish economic rule and lower the profit bite to increase distribution, and all will be better off for the change.
I admire the courage of Dr. Peter Rost, who I noticed in today’s NY Times (Sat. Oct 30, 2004) op-ed page. Dr. Rost’s comments are consistent with the findings in our article “The Distribution of Life-Saving Pharmaceuticals: Viewing the Conflict between Social Efficiency and Economic Efficiency through a Social Contract Lens”, Business and Society Review, 108, 365-387 (2003). Dr. Rost is the first firm “insider” who has taken an activist position on social responsibility in the Pharmaceutical industry. He is to be commended and hopefully protected by his firm as a valuable voice and a sign that dialogue counts.
Peter Rost personifies the ideal of the healer – compassionate and concerned. Galen would be proud that at least one doctor continues to uphold the essence of the healing arts. Thank you Dr Rost for your service to those of us in need of healthcare and healing. You truly are a Doctor of Medicine.