Evidence-based medicine for consumers: a role for the Cochrane Collaboration |
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| Authors: | Pamela J White |
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| Institution: | 1.National Network of Libraries of Medicine, New England RegionUniversity of Connecticut Health Center 263 Farmington AvenueFarmington, Connecticut 06030-5370;2.* Pamela J. White is now library director for Saba University School of Medicine, Saba, Netherlands-Antilles;3.† This anatomy may be viewed at |
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| Abstract: | Quality of health information on the Internet has been a concern since health information first began appearing on the Web. Evidence-based medicine tools, traditionally intended for physicians, may benefit consumers as they participate in making health care desisions. This article describes a rationale for Cochrane reviews as an evidence-based medicine tool for consumers. The Cochrane Collaboration, a global force for systematic literature reviews, has strict procedures for developing literature reviews. Criteria for Cochrane reviews are compared with critical evaluation skills commonly taught to consumers regarding the use of Websites. The Cochrane Collaboration''s Consumer Network has established a separate Website, with review synopses written for an audience of consumers. Suggestions for further research into consumer use of the Cochrane Library and consumer involvement with the Cochrane Collaboration are discussed.People who access health information are likely to play an active role in their health care [1]. Access to health information empowers consumers by enabling them to (1) make more knowledgeable choices in self-care, (2) more intelligently discuss medical conditions and treatments with their doctors, (3) educate themselves regarding good health practices, and (4) learn about the health care system. If access to information is to help consumers achieve better health, quality of accessible information must be considered by information producers and consumers. This paper identifies a rationale for evidence-based medicine for consumers, introduces the quality-control work of the Cochrane Collaboration, and explores consumer involvement in the Cochrane Library, relative to critical evaluation models. |
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