Article type
Year
Abstract
Background: Initiating new research projects without reviewing the existing evidence systematically is wasteful, unscientific, and potentially unethical. Scientists are expected to refer to earlier research results when they argue for the need for a new study. However, research-on-research shows that the papers cited are often insufficient and biased towards the interest of the researchers; that researchers are not supported (through funding, time, training) in the production and updating of systematic reviews; and that there is a need for new ways of conducting mandatory systematic reviews that are more efficient yet rigorous.
Objectives: To address these problems, a group of researchers have initiated an international network, the ‘Evidence-Based Research Network’ (EBRNetwork - www.ebrnetwork.org), established in Bergen, Norway in December 2014.
Methods: We are presenting the findings of several relevant studies, including the use of previous research by scientists; the problem of ongoing research after a benefit or harm of an intervention has been unequivocally established; and an international comparison of research funders, regulators and publishers regarding policies mandating systematic reviews prior to new research. We issue an invitation to join the EBRNetwork and will work with the members of the audience toward identifying and prioritising key initial workstreams.
Results: Researchers embarking on research after reviewing the existing evidence systematically will be able to clarify whether the study is truly needed (adding value to health care),or whether it is asking a research question for which we have already have high quality evidence – and thus could be considered wasteful.
Conclusions: The new EBRNetwork is an international collaboration that aims to ensure that no new studies are conducted without prior systematic review, and that works towards more efficient production, updating and dissemination of systematic reviews. The Network issues a call to participate in developing a consensus statement to accomplish these aims.
Objectives: To address these problems, a group of researchers have initiated an international network, the ‘Evidence-Based Research Network’ (EBRNetwork - www.ebrnetwork.org), established in Bergen, Norway in December 2014.
Methods: We are presenting the findings of several relevant studies, including the use of previous research by scientists; the problem of ongoing research after a benefit or harm of an intervention has been unequivocally established; and an international comparison of research funders, regulators and publishers regarding policies mandating systematic reviews prior to new research. We issue an invitation to join the EBRNetwork and will work with the members of the audience toward identifying and prioritising key initial workstreams.
Results: Researchers embarking on research after reviewing the existing evidence systematically will be able to clarify whether the study is truly needed (adding value to health care),or whether it is asking a research question for which we have already have high quality evidence – and thus could be considered wasteful.
Conclusions: The new EBRNetwork is an international collaboration that aims to ensure that no new studies are conducted without prior systematic review, and that works towards more efficient production, updating and dissemination of systematic reviews. The Network issues a call to participate in developing a consensus statement to accomplish these aims.