Evidence based medicine is a double edged sword

摘要

Evidence based medicine does protect patients from harms, but it can also adversely affect clinical judgment if used only as a tool for defensive medicine (Head to Head, 4-11 August). Some clinicians simply regurgitate whatthe guidelines say, without trying to understand the rationale behind them. Why do physicians learn critical thinking and literature appraisal in medical schools, ifthey don't apply those skills at work?