ANSWERS: 1
  • Evidence-based medicine, a core tenet of the current practice of medicine, calls for the use of scientific data to make decisions about patient care. It does not, however, rely on science alone.

    Foundations

    While the concept of evidence-based medicine can be traced to the 19th century---and perhaps even earlier---it took root in the 1990s. A Jan. 13, 1996, editorial in the "British Journal of Medicine" helped articulate contemporary understandings.

    Definition

    The editorial describes evidence-based medicine as "the conscientious, explicit, and judicious use of current best evidence" in making health care decisions. Scientific research lies at the heart of evidence-based medicine, but the physician's judgment and expertise play a crucial role.

    Physician Insight

    The American College of Cardiology emphasizes this point, noting that a "physician with knowledge of clinical evidence alone cannot deliver supportive, compassionate care without clinical skill accrued through years of experience."

    Patient's Role

    The patient is central to the process. Evidence-based medicine takes into account the patient's values, preferences and needs, according to speakers at the 2004 American Society of Health System Pharmacists (ASHP) Midyear Clinical Meeting.

    Limitations

    Challenges discussed at the ASHP meeting include inadequate or insufficient data, difficulty in applying specific research results to the general population and the time constraints of a typical medical practice.

    Source:

    "British Medical Journal"

    American College of Cardiology

    39th American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) Midyear Clinical Meeting

    More Information:

    Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine

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