The recent article by Jessica Van Berkel, âÄúQuestionable ethics in education: a textbook case,âÄù does a disservice to readers through confusing and inaccurate reporting on the nature and intent of the book âÄúPrimary Care in Otolaryngology,âÄù published by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS). The article implies that the educational content of the âÄúPrimary Care in OtolaryngologyâÄù book is influenced by the pharmaceutical company that provided the grant for the book to be published. Had the author done her research, or contacted the AAO-HNS while writing the article, she would have learned that the book was written solely by medical experts with no input whatsoever from the pharmaceutical company. The grant money in question was excluded from content influence by contract. The agreement stipulated the grant be used solely for publication and distribution to medical residency programs âÄî which was clearly stated within the text. Furthermore, we would have informed her that that book has not been reprinted since 2004. Since 2004, self-scrutiny by medical organizations and agency regulations has created appropriate firewalls between corporate entities and content development to guard against actual undue influence and the perception of it. The AAO-HNS has at all times championed and complied with regulations on medical education programs. The AAO-HNS welcomes greater awareness of the need for full disclosure in all facets of medical education. As the nationâÄôs largest association representing otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons (also known as ear, nose and throat physicians), our mission is to empower otolaryngologists to deliver the best patient care. The value and purpose of the book was to help medical students and residents become well-informed clinicians in those areas of medicine that impact everyone at some point in their lives. Dr. David Nielsen Executive Vice President and CEO American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery