Science of Reading

There is a scientific basis on which to make decisions about clinical reading just as there is for decisions about clinical practice, and proper utilization of the medical literature is essential for ensuring that medical care does more good than harm.

Abstract

There is a scientific basis on which to make decisions about clinical reading just as there is for decisions about clinical practice. Recognizing this does not make coping with the clinical literature or coping with clinical practice a less formidable challenge. It can, however, help clinicians to arrive at answers that are more likely to be valid and clinically applicable and to do so with greater efficiency. Proper utilization of the medical literature, like proper research methodology, is essential for ensuring that medical care does more good than harm. Like science in general, it "consists in the creation of simplicity out of complexity" and it rewards us with the joy of discovery.