Position statement on contemporary issues: conflict of interest.

Abstract

Academy members in leadership positions should understand that they occupy a position of trust and are expected to act at all times in the best interests of the Academy, in good faith, and without bias or favor to outside interest. Whenever outside interests or other responsibilities potentially conflict with duty to the Academy, these must be declared. Members certify that they will act in such manner as to avoid even the appearance of using positions to advance any personal interest. If an actual, potential, or apparent conflict is detected, policies are in place to resolve such conflicts. All authors of Academy publications and speakers at Academy meetings adhere to the same principles of disclosure and avoidance of conflict of interest for the fair and balanced presentation of scientific information that guides practice. Any member who speaks at the annual business meeting or advisory board meeting must verbally disclose any potential conflicts of interest before speaking. The Academy is committed to transparency and objective decision-making at all organizational levels.