PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Direct-to-consumer medical advertising is big business. Back in 1996, $550 million was spent on ads. In 2020, that number climbed to $6.5 billion.
The United States and New Zealand are the only countries that permit direct-to-consumer medical advertising. Many see potential dangers, such as the use of more expensive medications and reduced focus on lifestyle changes.
Those who support the advertisements say they educate consumers and encourage visits to the physician. However, the biggest concern is that the dollars spent on advertising raise the prices of medications you receive.
Get more medical reports from Dr. Brian McDonough.
KYW Newsradio's Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.
