APA’s Office of Continuing Medical Education is hiring psychiatry residents who will be attending APA’s 2001 annual meeting to serve as monitors and alternates for Industry-Supported Symposia (ISS).

Every year the symposia supported by the pharmaceutical industry are among the activities most highly rated by attendees of APA’s annual meeting. These activities are held to strict standards for balance, scientific rigor, and objectivity. Evaluations and comments from attendees are one aspect of this oversight. Another is the on-site monitoring of the sessions by residents.

Monitors will assist APA by helping ensure that the ISS adhere to APA guidelines by completing a basic form that covers the following information: (1) noting whether there is a clear statement of possible conflict of interest by each presenter; (2) noting possible bias in the presentation; and (3) noting whether the participants’ questions are handled fairly.

In addition, monitors will obtain a copy of all handouts for the APA Office of Continuing Medical Education.

Monitors will not be responsible for taking minutes or notes. Alternates agree to be available for a specific symposium or symposia and to function as a monitor if required.

Residents may elect to serve as a monitor or an alternate for a minimum of one three-hour symposium. In exchange for serving as a monitor or alternate, APA will pay each resident a $100 honorarium per symposium for monitoring and a $25 honorarium per symposium for availability as an alternate. Monitors and alternates also may take advantage of food functions at the symposia. No other expenses will be covered. Resident payment will be mailed after the meeting.

Interested residents should submit an application by March 12. Assignments generally will be made on a first-come, first-served basis, although APA members will receive preference.