Which statement best describes evidence-based medicine?

Which statement best describes evidence-based medicine?

• A. It integrates best research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values
• B. It relies only on randomized controlled trials
• C. It disregards patient preferences
• D. It emphasizes marketing data

Answer: (A)

Evidence-based medicine blends three elements: the best research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values. The best evidence comes from high-quality studies and systematic reviews that are appropriately applied to the clinical question. Clinical expertise involves the clinician’s skill in interpreting evidence, weighing benefits and harms, and tailoring decisions to the individual patient’s condition and circumstances. Patient values reflect preferences, concerns, and priorities, guiding shared decision-making about which options are acceptable. This approach isn’t limited to randomized trials, and it doesn’t ignore patient preferences or rely on marketing data; it uses rigorous evidence together with clinician judgment and patient goals to determine the best course of action.

Evidence-based medicine blends three elements: the best research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values. The best evidence comes from high-quality studies and systematic reviews that are appropriately applied to the clinical question. Clinical expertise involves the clinician’s skill in interpreting evidence, weighing benefits and harms, and tailoring decisions to the individual patient’s condition and circumstances. Patient values reflect preferences, concerns, and priorities, guiding shared decision-making about which options are acceptable. This approach isn’t limited to randomized trials, and it doesn’t ignore patient preferences or rely on marketing data; it uses rigorous evidence together with clinician judgment and patient goals to determine the best course of action.