NEMA presents new code of ethics for imaging equipment manufacturers

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) on Wednesday announced its new Code of Ethics for member companies that manufacture medical imaging equipment and radiation therapy systems. 

NEMA said the code represents "industry's desire to ensure adherence to the government's anti-kickback and false claims laws." It gives guidance to NEMA member companies on how to interact with customers such as radiologists, cardiologists, and orthopedists. It also provides assistance on handling entertainment, charitable contributions, grants, travel expenses for training, and other factors relating to or having influence on the procurement of the vendor's product. 

The voluntary code is effective January 1st.

"We wanted to get out in front of any potential problems with the federal laws," said Robert Britain, NEMA's vice president of Medical Products. "This guide provides a roadmap on how vendors should interact with their customers.

"Establishing ethical standards is critical to the medical device industry's ability to continue a healthy collaboration with health care professionals and institutions," according to NEMA President Malcolm O'Hagan. "Adherence to these standards will enable NEMA members to continue to provide high quality, cost-effective health care technology to their customers and the industry."
More information on Setting Standards for Excellence can be acquired at www.nema.org.

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