Until the 1970s it was illegal in most states for Medical practices, Hospit

 Until the 1970s it was illegal in most states for Medical practices, Hospitals, etc. to advertise directly to consumers (DTC).  In 1977 the Supreme Court ruled that professional advertising was Constitutionally protected free speech and could not be banned by the states. Professional societies like the AMA also believed that, at the minimum, DTC advertising was unprofessional.   Even now the AMA officially opines that DTC Drug advertising should be banned, but has no authority to enforce such a ban.

This course is about Health Care Marketing.  Do you feel that Marketing, including Advertising, of Healthcare Services, products including prescription (Rx) and over-the-counter (OTC) "drugs", and devices is acceptable and professional? Should there be complete or partial limitations?  Note that Rx and OTC drugs, and medical devices have approved "labeling" describing when and how to use them.  Labeling and claims outside of the approved label claims is call "misbranding" and is illegal under the 1911 Food, Drugs and Cosmetic act, as amended, and enforced by FDA.