Rational Use of Medicines

Evidence-based medicines (EBM)

EVM is a systemic and structured approach to medical decision-making. It ensures healthcare system adopts a treatment plan based on solid evidence from scientific research, clinical expertise, and patient values. It improves the quality of patient care. The following are key components of evidence-based medicines:

• 1. Research evidence: EBM relies on high-quality research studies such as randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis These studies help to provide the foundation for clinical decision-making. These studies also help to determine the effectiveness and safety of medical intervention (involvement).

• 2. Clinical expertise: Clinical expertise includes the knowledge, skill, and experience of medical practitioners, pharmacists, and nurses. EBM encourages healthcare providers to use their expertise with research evidence while making clinical decisions.

• 3. Patient values and preferences: EBM recognizes the importance of the values, preferences, and circumstances of individual patients. It encourages the shared decision-making between healthcare provider and patient. It helps to consider patients' unique needs and concerns.

• 4. Critical appraisals: EBM involves critical appraisal and evaluation of the quality of available evidence. This process helps healthcare professionals determine the validity, reliability, and relevance of research findings to a specific clinical situation.

• 5. Application of evidence: EBM guides the application of research evidence to clinical practice. Healthcare professionals use the best available evidence in treatment decisions and diagnostic strategies

• 6. Patient-centered: EBM is patient-centered. It focuses on individual patient needs and preferences.

• 7. Safety and efficacy: EBM prioritizes the treatment that is safe and effective through scientific evaluation. It avoids harmful or ineffective practices.

• 8. Cost-effectiveness: EBM prefers cost-effective treatment options.

• 9. Regular updates: EBM guidelines and recommendations are periodically reviewed and updated. This ensures healthcare providers access to the latest evidence-based information.