[What do general practitioners think about evidenced-based medicine? A study with focus groups].
OBJECTIVE
To examine the attitudes of a sample of General Practitioners (GPs) towards Evidenced-Based Medicine (EBM) and its use and the obstacles to put into practice in Primary Care (PC).


METHODS
Qualitative study using Focus Groups (FG).


METHODS
Primary Care in the Autonomous Community of Murcia, Spain, January-June 2007.


METHODS
GPs with a clinical practice in PC in the Murcian Health Service.


METHODS
Two FG (with/without previous training in EBM). Using intentional sampling, 19 GPs were selected from PC professionals. The discussions were recorded on video and transcribed literally. The discussions were then, segmented, categorised and interpreted.


RESULTS
Attitudes: EBM is useful, it helps to reduce variation in clinical practice and decreases uncertainty. Great importance is given to clinical experience and the role of the Pharmaceutical Industry and the Health Administration may have in its promotion is viewed with suspicion. Use: Its use is still limited. To consult with colleagues continues to be the main source of information. Obstacles: The major difficulties identified were the limited time it has been available, lack of experience and the language.


CONCLUSIONS
Although GPs show a positive attitude towards EBM, there are still a few who recognise the use of consultation. The main limitation identified was lack of time in the clinic due to excessive pressure of care work. To increase its use, they proposed, more training activities, motivation by an appropriate process and reorganisation of their care work.
Centro Tecnológico de Información y Documentación Sanitaria de la Consejería de Sanidad, Murcia, España. m.csanchezlopez@gmail.com
María Carmen
MC
Sánchez López
Manuel
M
Madrigal de Torres
Juan Antonio
JA
Sánchez Sánchez
Juan Francisco Menárguez
JF
Puche
Enrique Aguinaga
EA
Ontoso
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D017144:Focus Groups; D058006:General Practice; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires