5. March 2026

What is Evidence-Based Medicine?

David Sackett was a physician that wrote the paper that defined Evidence Based Medicine (EMB) in 1996. Below is a diagram from this paper that describes the three pillars of EBM. Many think of EBM as whatever the research says, but this is not the whole picture.

The 3 components are:

1. Relevant Scientific Evidence

2. Clinical Judgement

3. Patient Values and Preferences

I practice by this model. That means many things for the care I will provide. 

First, I spend a lot of time reading published research to understand what has evidence behind its use. If all the papers say it is no better than a placebo, I won't recommend it. That means you won't be wasting your money on something that doesn't work!

Second, I have many years of clinical experience to aid in informing my judgement to make the most appropriate recommendations for my patients. This includes being able to make, understand and explain a diagnosis and a prognosis. 

Third, I really do take into account YOUR values and preferences. I seek to work with you and not strong arm you into a certain 'standard of care.'