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Evidence-based medicine in dermatology
1Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. mbigby@caregroup.harvard.edu
Dermatologic Clinics
|May 3, 2000
Summary
Evidence-based medicine (EBM) involves using the best current evidence for patient care decisions. This requires formulating questions, finding and appraising evidence, applying it to patients, and saving findings for future reference.
Area of Science:
- Medical Informatics
- Clinical Practice Guidelines
Background:
- Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is crucial for informed clinical decision-making.
- Practicing EBM involves a systematic five-step process.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the essential steps and resources for implementing evidence-based medicine.
- To guide healthcare professionals in utilizing the best available evidence for patient care.
Main Methods:
- Formulating well-built clinical questions.
- Searching for evidence using resources like The Cochrane Library and MEDLINE via PubMed.
- Critically appraising the quality and applicability of evidence.
Main Results:
- The Cochrane Library is optimal for treatment evidence.
- MEDLINE via PubMed is a key resource for other evidence types, particularly in dermatology.
- Evidence quality is determined by a hierarchy, from systematic reviews to expert opinion.
Conclusions:
- Effective EBM requires rigorous evidence appraisal and application to individual patients.
- Documenting clinical questions, evidence, and appraisals facilitates future use and learning.