Longitudinal analysis of integrating evidence-based medicine into a medical student curriculum.
OBJECTIVE
Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is an important tool for lifelong learning by medical students. This study aimed to determine changes in self-reported attitudes and skills after integration of EBM into a medical school curriculum.


METHODS
A pre- and post-intervention study was conducted at the Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University in Thailand during 2005-2007. Fourth-year medical students were instructed in EBM by a team promoting EBM and then practiced EBM under supervision of faculty advisors. We then evaluated changes in attitude and skills before studying EBM (T0) and at two points (T1 and T2) after learning about EBM. Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon Sign Rank test and a generalized linear multilevel model.


RESULTS
After integration of EBM into the curriculum, the students' attitudes and skills at T1 and T2 were improved significantly compared to ratings at T0.


CONCLUSIONS
Medical students developed a positive attitude toward EBM and improved their skills after integration of EBM into a medical school curriculum.
Liabsuetrakul
Tippawan
T
Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkla, Thailand. ltippawa@yahoo.com
Suntharasaj
Thitima
T
Tangtrakulwanich
Boonsin
B
Uakritdathikarn
Thida
T
Pornsawat
Panumad
P
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003479:Curriculum; D003906:Developing Countries; D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate / Q000379:methods*; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D011361:Professional Competence; D015397:Program Evaluation; D013337:Students, Medical; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013785:Thailand