feedback.docx

: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING

4

Evidence-based medicine is just that - it is any medical practice that relies on scientific evidence for guidance in the decision-making process (Brown, Pasupathy, & Patrick, 2019). Because of such, evidence-based medicine ensures consistent quality in healthcare and minimizes possible fallouts related to unproven or unfounded treatments (Brown et al., 2019).

The practice of such approach is critical in today’s healthcare environment because this model of evidence-based care offers clinicians a way to achieve improved quality and patient satisfaction, as well as reduced medical costs (Brown et al., 2019). Through the use of empirical clinical experiences and research information, organizations are able to establish a systematic approach to efficiently and effectively care for patients with specific conditions (i.e., asthma, heart failure, diabetes, etc.) (Brown et al., 2019). 

In today’s society, the availability of web-enabled devices and online resources gives providers an unprecedented level of access to such evidence-based research, which can, in turn, provide insight in the consideration of more targeted treatment plans, new workflows, and/or best practices (Brown et al., 2019). This affects the traditional role of physicians, who previously tended to base their decisions and rely solely on their own clinical expertise and education. All in all, evidence-based medicine adds value to healthcare by: helping clinicians stay current on standardized evidence-based protocols; using real-time data to make care decisions; improving transparency, accountability, and value; improving the quality of care; and lastly improving overall health outcomes (Brown et al., 2019). 

Reference

Brown, G. D., Pasupathy, K. S., & Patrick, T. B. (2019). Health informatics: a systems perspective (2nd ed.). Chicago, IL: Health Administration Press.