TMB Statement Regarding COVID-19 Treatments
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The Texas Medical Board is aware of sometimes conflicting information being published regarding COVID-19. In the past week there was a widely published claim of a “cure” for COVID-19. As we are all aware the medical community is still learning, researching and gaining understanding of the virus. While there are drugs and therapies being used to treat COVID-19, there is no definitive cure at this time.
Both patients and physicians have a right to decide what treatment may be used for COVID-19. The Board does not issue endorsements of the use of any specific drugs or treatments for COVID-19, but any treatment decision must be made with full, proper and accurate disclosure by a physician.
Physicians should refer to laws and Board rules, including those for complementary and alternative medicine, when considering potential treatments and medical decisions regarding COVID-19. A physician must provide full disclosure of treatment options, side effects, obtain informed consent, and there cannot be false, misleading or deceptive advertising or statements made regarding any therapies, including a cure for COVID-19
If the Board were to receive a complaint, it would be reviewed following the Board’s standard enforcement process, and may include a standard of care review by outside third-party physician experts if the matter involves the treatment of a patient. The Board may also investigate complaints for false, misleading or deceptive advertising, which could include for assuring a permanent cure for an incurable disease.
TMB will continue to provide any updates on COVID-19 issues on the TMB website at www.tmb.state.tx.us/page/coronavirus .
For the latest COVID-19 information for health providers and the public, visit the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) COVID-19 web page at dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/ .
