Bridging the gap…between the business of medicine and the practice of medicine.

Jan / Feb 2007: Evidence-Based Medicine

While the concept was developed as a clinical approach, payers are now taking the lead in using data to restructure reimbursement and develop guidelines and best practices. No matter what they think of EBM, physicians must educate themselves on the topic and understand how it may directly affect them and their practice.

In this issue, Doctor’s Digest explores the practical aspects of EBM as it affects the business of medicine. From the computerization of medical records to reimbursement, liability and other financial issues, and even how physicians communicate with their patients, EBM is poised to make an impact on the day-to-day practice of medicine.

In This Issue:

• Introduction
• Understanding Evidence-Based Medicine
  Although the core concept of EBM is not new, it is gaining prominence with the push to develop standard protocols and clinical guidelines for medical care.
• Implementation: Advantages and Challenges
  The way EBM gets implemented depends a great deal on the nature and size of the practice or healthcare organization. Physicians may incorporate Evidence-based Medicine into the business of practicing medicine on many levels using a variety of tools and techniques that serve the diverse needs of physician practices.
• Effects on the Cost of Practicing Medicine
  EBM has the potentialto streamline aspects of patient care, which can save physicians and their staff time. EBM is also part and parcel of the pay-for-performance trend and other reimbursement changes.
• Weighing Medical Evidence
  Physicians practicing Evidence-based Medicine must evaluate medical literature and decide if the information applies to the patient. Doing this may require new skills and resources.
• EBM and the Physician-Patient Relationship
  By helping patients look carefully at the evidence, physicians can help them make important treatment decisions and help them stick with a treatment plan.
• Resources: For More Information
  If you’d like to learn more about Evidence-based Medicine, consult the list of online journals, training opportunities, and web-based resources.
• Pocket Coding Advisor: Consultation or New Patient? Remember the Three R’s
• Download the Full Issue