AMA submission to the Therapeutic Goods Administration – Proposed improvements to the Therapeutic Goods Advertising Code

In this submission, the AMA supports the TGA’s proposals to clarify any areas of confusion that inhibits advertisers from complying with the Code. However, methods should not ease advertising regulation and expand the scope of advertisements. Advertisements in themselves are designed to influence a consumer’s purchasing decisions and as a result are inherently biased and subjective. There should be a ban on endorsements and testimonials except for public health campaigns. Consumers should obtain their health information and treatment options from their medical practitioner to ensure their health care is safe, of high quality, and effective.