The physician payment sunshine provisions of the Affordable Care Act have been issued with the intent of reducing potential conflicts of interest. The relationships of physicians and manufacturers are under focus. On February 1, 2013 CMS released the final rule that will increase transparency of relationships between doctors and industry.

Data collection will begin on August 1, 2013 and the information will become available on a public website by September 30, 2014. Items to be disclosed include cash and in-kind gifts to physicians for speaking fees, meals, and travel. However, payments provided as compensation for speaking at a continuing education program under certain conditions will not require reporting. Also exempted will be small incidental items that are under $10.00 and distributed at large events.