Evaluating evidence in practice

Abstract

Evaluating evidence-based medicine (EBM) techniques can be an extremely rewarding part of the advisory process. The result of applying the ‘best evidence’ approach from a careful appraisal of the scientific literature available and the data from a clinical case, should significantly reduce the risk of an adverse outcome. Sharing the consequences of using a Knowledge Summary with other professionals either within a practice or in a wider field, can make consultation a much more efficient and risk-averse process. Once the value to be obtained from the EBM search is aligned between stakeholders, a project can be built that is both accountable and measurable within the group and clear differences determined, between the start and end of the project. The evaluation process should include all possible parameters, including those from the case and the stakeholders' time saved after improvement has been found. In future, the ability to share the outcome of EBM case management within an online platform could be beneficial to both advisory, farm and companion animal health businesses.