This consultation sought views on the possible introduction of regulations mandating the disclosure of industry payments to the healthcare sector. It was open for 6 weeks from 4 September to 16 October 2023 and was actively shared with important stakeholders to ensure those with particularly relevant views or experience had the opportunity to contribute. In total, 690 responses were received, with 609 received through the survey and 81 received by email.

It is clear from the majority of responses that there is a need for better transparency regarding payments made between industry and registered healthcare professionals, healthcare provider organisations and organisations connected to the provision of healthcare.

The government fully supports this sentiment, recognising the importance in enabling patients to make informed decisions about their own care and improving the transparency of industry payments.

In response to this consultation, the government will develop and publish clear guidance in relation to disclosing payments made by the medicines and medical devices industries to the healthcare sector. This guidance will set out best practice for industry to follow, which will advise on:

• which payments should be reported
• the format of the reporting
• the frequency of the reporting

The government will monitor the uptake of this forthcoming guidance.

While the government acknowledges that a number of stakeholders favoured a legislative approach to payment disclosures, this guidance-based approach will allow patients to benefit from industry reporting more quickly, without further delays that could have followed the introduction of legislation and the establishment of a government reporting and compliance system. This positive step towards transparency will add clarity to the relationship between industry and healthcare professionals, assisting patients in making informed decisions about their care.