Dealing With Information Overload: Application of Evidence at Point of Care
January 2005
TLDR Healthcare providers need skills to effectively use up-to-date, evidence-based information for better patient care.
The article discussed the challenge faced by healthcare professionals in managing the overwhelming influx of information, particularly in scenarios where immediate, evidence-based decisions are required, such as a GP needing to interpret a patient's internet-sourced information on finasteride's benefits in preventing prostate cancer. It highlighted the necessity for healthcare providers to develop skills in identifying, filtering, evaluating, and applying new information effectively to improve patient care. The article emphasized the importance of relying on up-to-date, critically appraised evidence-based resources rather than solely on recommendations from colleagues or personal clinical experience.