Canadian breast cancer guidelines are as effective as possible under the circumstances.

摘要

Clinical practice guidelines systematically synthesize overwhelming and sometimes conflicting medical research into a cogent statement to guide clinical decisions: However, the million dollar question remains unanswered - are guidelines effective? Systematic reviews, meta-analyses and clinical practice guidelines are all steps on the path to the Holy Grail of consistent, evidence-based decision-making in clinical practice. This, however, does not mean complete uniformity in decision-making, since some variation in care, reflecting local circumstances, clinical judgment and patient particulars, is appropriate. Internationally, there are a number of large organizations focused on guideline development, including the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence and the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network. With respect to cancer guidelines, national, provincial and professional organizations all direct substantial resources toward the development, dissemination and maintenance of guidelines.