Course: Evidence Based Medicine (EBM)
The term "Evidence Based Meidicine" refers to clinical practice based on the best available evidence concerning efficacy and safety of drugs and procedures. Such evidence is usually based on the results of reliable experimental and observational studies. EBM makes it possible to discern between strong and weak evidence, more and less reliable data, significant treatment effects and those within the limits of statistical error etc. Physicians and decision makers are therefore able to evaluate independently the best options for the patients and choose the optimum treatment. The patients may also be informed as to the consequences of different options and therefore be given a chance to make the best, conscious choice.
Intended participants
The course is addressed to clinicians and other health care professionals interested in critical appraisal of scientific evidence, necessary to practice evidence based medicine.
Key abilities
After completing this course, the participant will be able to:
- formulate precise clinical questions, for which clear answers may be obtained,
- quickly and efficiently identify scientific evidence,
- appraise the evidence with respect to its importance, credibility and applicability,
- calculate basic relative and absolute parameters,
- interpret the results of clinical trials and make clinical decisions based on such evidence,
- assess statistical and clinical significance of the results.