Dissemination of guidelines: which sources do physicians use in order to be informed?

Abstract

Segmentation of the target group is necessary for effective dissemination of guidelines or new research findings. For some doctors it is desirable to make evidence available quickly, for others spreading the guidelines through the local network may be effective, while for another group a more active, personal approach may be necessary.

Trends in otitis media surgery: A decrease in adenoidectomy

“…The effect of guidelines in clinical practice is in fact still debated and has raised concern [3][4][5]. National guidelines do not seem to have an effect on surgery rates [40,41].…”

“…Tympanostomy tube insertions are intended to restore ventilation and pressure regulation in the middle ear, thus decreasing the frequency of acute otitis media, shorten the duration of effusion and improve hearing. Although most western countries have clinical practice guidelines on upper respiratory surgery, their value have been questioned [3][4][5]. A recent study suggested that a substantial amount of practice departs from expert recommendations [6].…”

Routine oral examinations in primary care: Which predictors determine what is done?

“…Simultaneously in general dental practice, intensive multi-faceted CPG-implementation methods should be applied 39,40 ; after all only dissemination does not lead to change of behaviour. 41,42 Further research is needed in dentistry on implementation strategies to provide guidance for GDPs in selecting patients with different risk of oral disease, resulting in more appropriate and evidence-based oral care delivery.…”

Otitis media surgery: Large variability between Finland and Norway

“…Guidelines, when clearly defined and correctly applied, are helpful tools in prescribing good clinical practice [16]. For otitis media, treatment guidelines have only during the past decade become part of clinical practice [17].…”