Evidence-based medicine: Perceived knowledge, attitude, and practice among resident physicians in various private training institutions in Davao City

ABSTRACT

@#<p style="text-align justify;"><strong>BACKGROUND:</strong> Evidence-based medicine is the conscientious and judicious use of current best evidence from clinical care research in the management of individual patients. Several studies have emphasized its value and how its practice can translate into tangible patient outcomes. However, despite its undeniable role in improving patient outcomes, various multinational studies have also shown that very few medical practitioners are aware of or practice evidence-based medicine.</p><p style="text-align justify;"><strong>OBJECTIVE:</strong> This study aimed to determine the level of perceived knowledge, attitude and practice of evidence-based medicine among resident physicians in various private  training institutions in Davao City.</p><p style="text-align justify;"><strong>METHODS:</strong> This study used a descriptive cross-sectional research approach. Resident physicians from various private training hospitals in Davao City were surveyed.</p><p style="text-align justify;"><strong>RESULTS:</strong> A total of 174 respondents were recruited, of which 124 agreed to participate and be included in the study. The over-all mean for the level of knowledge and skills was 4.70 (+/-0.32), for the attitude and practice of EBM were 5.28 (+/-0.59) and 4.98 (+/-0.27) respectively.</p><p style="text-align justify;"><strong>CONCLUSION:</strong> The results of this study demonstrated that the level of knowledge and skills on EBM among resident physicians in various training institutions in Davao City is higher as compared to those cited in the literature, although it is lower than the acceptable level set by the proponents based on best assumption. The level of attitude towards EBM is also lower and only the practice of EBM is above the set acceptable level.</p>