CMS Open Payments Data: A Tool for Policy Formation and Regulation

Regulatory authorities and policy analysts rely on CMS Open Payments Data in the crafting of policies meant to increase health care finance transparency. Officials may identify disturbing trends by analyzing CMS Open Payments Data, and officials may act to limit financial conflicts of interest. This database forms a valuable source of information that is used in the assessment of whether industry practices are ethical. Updating guidelines with the available data, making financial disclosures comprehensive and meaningful, is essential for efficient policy development to ensure that the interests of patients are safeguarded while keeping the medical industry as fair and accountable as possible.