[The German Network for Evidence-based Medicine -- DNEbM]

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Health Services Research
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• The German Network for Evidence-based Medicine (DNEbM) was established in October 2000.
• Its development was influenced by the German Cochrane Initiative and the international Cochrane Collaboration.
• The DNEbM aims to be a central resource for evidence-based medicine (EBM) in German-speaking regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To foster projects addressing scientific and methodological challenges in EBM.
• To advance professional development in EBM.
• To facilitate the translation of EBM into clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• The DNEbM has developed curricula for EBM and Health Technology Assessment (HTA).
• It publishes position papers on significant health topics.
• The HTA section includes experts from academia, healthcare administration, and industry.

Main Results:

• The DNEbM has become a leading society for EBM in German-speaking Europe, with over 600 members.
• Curricula for undergraduate and continuing medical education in EBM and HTA have been created.
• Position papers on critical issues like PSA screening and RCT registration have been released.

Conclusions:

• The DNEbM plays a crucial role in advancing EBM in Germany and surrounding regions.
• The network actively contributes to education and policy through curriculum development and position papers.
• An online HTA course is under development to support the practical application of HTA in Germany.