Hot Wings...*

Novartis AG was sued by the US government, for the second time, for allegedly bribing physicians into increasing prescriptions of the company's drugs, coercing the doctors by taking them on outings to Hooters, fishing trips, and offering pricey fees for speaking engagements.

"Novartis corrupted the prescription drug dispensing process with multimillion-dollar 'incentive programs' that targeted doctors who, in exchange for illegal kickbacks, steered patients toward its drugs,". "Novartis reaped dramatically increased profits on these drugs, and Medicare, Medicaid and other federal health-care programs were left holding the bag." 

Novartis spokeswoman said they will defend themselves in court. The physician speaker programs targeted are an accepted practice in the industry. She argued that the rebates and discounts cited by the government in the Myfortic case are "a customary, appropriate and legal practice"

If Novartis loses, it would be another massive financial blow to the drug makers for illegal activity.  In September 2010, Novartis paid $422.5 million over paying kickbacks and illegally promoting drugs for unapproved uses.

The government must allow individuals and companies to import medication from trusted sources. Canada, etc. [70% cheaper than current] and will eliminate the reason for kick back or bribery of  physicians.            Just a thought.