COS Position Statement: Conflicts of Interest in Clinical Practice

The Canadian Ophthalmological Society (COS) has released a new position statement, Conflicts of Interest in Clinical Practice (October 2026), providing professional and ethical guidance to ophthalmologists navigating potential conflicts of interest in clinical practice.

The statement focuses on intraocular lenses (IOLs), particularly where publicly insured and patient-funded options coexist, while outlining principles relevant to other clinical settings involving financial or commercial interests.

Key areas addressed include:

• Prioritizing patient welfare and maintaining independent clinical judgment.
• Supporting meaningful informed patient choice and transparency.
• Recognizing and appropriately managing potential conflicts of interest.
• Maintaining ethical relationships with industry.
• Understanding provincial and territorial regulatory requirements.

The document also includes links to relevant regulatory guidance across Canada to assist ophthalmologists in understanding the requirements applicable to their practice.

Access the full COS Position Statement: