Publisher's Synopsis
The goal of evidence-based medicine is to decrease the knowledge gap between research and practice by interpreting conflicting results and assessing the evidence. The steps involved include precisely defining a patient population, proficiently searching and critically appraising relevant information from the literature, and then deciding whether - and how - to use this information in the treatment of patients. In order to provide readers with an expansive introduction, the authors have included chapters oncost effectiveness in primary care, computer aids to clinical practice, and assessing accuracy of screening and diagnostic tests. This practical text lays the groundwork for understanding the evidence-based approach so that physicians can improve their everyday clinical decision making skills.
