Mercury
The WSMA does not oppose the therapeutic use of selected beneficial
mercury-containing medical products. The WSMA encourages physicians and
hospitals to phase out the purchase and use of mercury-containing products
where alternatives are possible. The WSMA urges medical product suppliers
to continue to develop, produce, and market appropriate, cost-competitive,
environmentally protective and effective mercury-free replacements. The
WSMA calls upon health care professionals to encourage the institutions
with which they are associated to adopt policies that will lead toward the
eventual elimination of mercury containing products where effective
alternatives are available. (Res A-3, A-02) (Reaffirmed A-23)
The WSMA encourages physicians to inform patients about fish consumption
advisories. (Res A-3, A-02) (Reaffirmed A-23)
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Abbreviations for House of Delegates report origination:
EC – Executive Committee; BT – Board of Trustees; CPA – Council on
Professional Affairs; JC – Judicial Council; CHS – Community and Health
Services