Evidence Based Medicine
Evidence-based medicine is nothing more than the integration of: the
best, most up-to-date research evidence; excellent clinical expertise;
and the patient’s own values or preferences. Some ask, "so what’s new
about evidence-based medicine? Haven’t we been practicing evidence-based
medicine all along?" In some respects this is true; however, we have not
always carefully assessed the evidence upon which we base our clinical
practice. We hear too often "that’s the way I do it because I’ve always
done it that way" or "I do it this way because that’s the way I learned
as an intern or resident" or "I do it this way because so and so told
me."
The medical literature is changing rapidly. New therapies/medications are
introduced rapidly. A question to ask yourself is how I as a clinician will
continue to provide the most up-to-date care to my patients? Evidence-based
medicine is a way to hone your self-learning skills. It will sharpen those
skills that you will need to remain current.
There are four (4) steps to the practice of evidence-based medicine.
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