Improving Healthcare Decision-Making through Clinical Collaboration and Cochrane Support

Article type
Authors
Ortiz Muñoz L1, Ortiz-muñoz L2, Aizman A3, Valenzuela A3, Morel-Marambio M1, Morel-Marambio M2, Letelier L3, Pantoja T1, Pantoja T4
1Centro Evidencia UC. Pontificia Universidad Católica De Chile., Santiago, Chile
2Cochrane ChileSantiago, Chile
3Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
4Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
Abstract
Background:
The project arises from the need to address priority issues in healthcare decision-making by integrating clinical expertise with support from a Cochrane-affiliated Center. This integration is presented as an effective strategy to generate evidence-based research and enhance the quality of medical care, thus preventing research waste.
Objectives:
To address the demand for tackling priority issues in medical practice.
To optimize resource utilization by focusing on relevant clinical questions.
To foster a culture of evidence-based clinical practice.
Methods:
Forty-two internal medicine physicians from five medical centers in Santiago, Chile, were invited to participate in the project through a detailed survey. Relevant clinical questions were identified and prioritized through a team-based analysis and deliberation process. Multidisciplinary teams were formed and trained in conducting systematic reviews following the Cochrane model.
Results:
The process facilitated the identification and prioritization of clinically relevant questions for medical practice. Active participation of physicians and experts ensured diverse representation and solid knowledge. Deliberative processes were crucial in making informed decisions. Priority was given to including outcomes with active patient involvement, ensuring their clinical relevance.
Conclusions:
Interdisciplinary collaboration and engagement of all stakeholders have been pivotal in generating evidence-based research in medicine. By prioritizing clinically relevant questions, promoting deliberative processes, and considering patient-preferred outcomes, the foundation is laid for more informed and effective clinical practice.