Teaching Journalism Ethics

Starting in May 2009, I'll be teaching a class in journalism ethics at New York University as part of the Science Health and Environment Reporting program. I've already selected several case studies--particularly with respect to conflict of interest in medical reporting. And I have lined up a media lawyer to come talk to the class about libel and other legal issues.

Now I need a few good cases that highlight the use of freedom of information legislation in science, health or environment reporting. I'm building a list of FOIA resources and cases on my delicious links.

If you have any to suggest, please either use the comment form below or use the "for:cgorman1271" tag on delicious. I am especially looking for first-hand accounts of what it is like to file a FOIA request on science, health and environment topics.

How Will New Medicare Rule Play Out?

Medicare's new policy not to pay for 10 "reasonably preventable" medical mistakes seems good in theory. I'll be interested to hear from readers how the new rule, which goes into effect today, works in practice.

Press Fails to Say Who Funds Drug Studies

The news media often fail to report when a drug study has been funded by pharmaceutical companies, according to a report in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Press accounts often use brand names instead of generic names when talking about medications.

The first problem is a bigger issue than the second because it speaks to a larger point about conflicts of interest. (Using generics names instead of brand names may simply be too idealistic a request--like remembering to ask for a tissue instead of a Kleenex).

Just because someone pays for a study doesn't mean it's necessarily biased but you should at least have the information. Which is why I'm glad that some pharmaceutical giants are now now making public the fees they make to outside doctors. Often the toughest part about medical reporting is not getting the technical facts right but rather finding an expert who hasn't been paid to promote his or her opinion.

Redesign at Healthfinder.gov

Check out the new design at healthfinder.gov, one of my favorite sites for reliable information about personal health. The site is brought to you by the folks at the US Dept of Health and Human Services but includes links to credible sources of information outside of government as well.