Objectives:
To help consumers make sense of scientific evidence, through discussion of (i) different ways of testing whether health treatments work; (ii) why randomised controlled trials are considered to be the best way of assessing the effectiveness of treatments; and (iii) the importance of systematic reviews.
Summary:
This friendly and interactive workshop aims to help consumers develop the skills needed to make sense of scientific evidence. It will help consumers appreciate the importance of evidence-based care and understand randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews. It will also assist in explaining issues around evidence-based care in a way that consumers can understand.
Participants will have an opportunity, in small groups, to comment on how trustworthy they think a research paper is and to discuss how useful the information in the paper might be in their local situation (critical appraisal).
All consumers are welcome and should be able to enjoy the workshop and learn whatever their current level of knowledge.