Evidence-based medicine: is it relevant to long-term care?

Internists and family physicians are trained in evidence-based medicine (EBM). The philosophy of incorporating clinical research "evidence" into medical practice is taught at the undergraduate and graduate levels of medical training. Practicing physicians incorporate EBM into their practices in variable degrees depending on their training, comfort level, and the nature of their practices. The evidence-based process has not clearly permeated the practice of long-term care, nor does it indisputably transfer from the office and hospital settings. This article discusses the applicability of EBM to the long-term care setting and some of the barriers to implementation.