Physicians and patients rely on medical journals as trusted sources of medical information. Unfortunately, conflicts of interest (this article primarily considers financial conflicts of interest) may undermine the credibility of the medical literature. Improved policies and practices at journals should address the conflicts of interest of authors, reviewers, editors, and journals. Medical journals should manage and eliminate conflicts, not just improve the disclosure of financial relationships.
© 2012 American Society of Law, Medicine & Ethics, Inc.