Although the public is generally positive about the value of prescription drugs to society, they have much more mixed views of pharmaceutical companies themselves. More than four in ten (44%) say they have a “very” (14%) or “somewhat” (30%) favorable opinion of drug companies, while one-half (50%) have an unfavorable view. When compared with other industries and groups, drug companies rank ahead of oil companies (36% have a “very” or “somewhat” favorable opinion) and tobacco companies (17%), but behind many other groups. At the top of the list, large majorities say they have a “very” or “somewhat” favorable opinion of doctors (82%), hospitals (78%) and banks (75%).