Using a Systematic Review in Clinical Decision Making: a Pilot Parallel, Randomized Controlled Trial

Using a Systematic Review in Clinical Decision Making: a Pilot Parallel, Randomized Controlled Trial

The purpose of this pilot study is to determine the feasibility of running a full-scale trial that compares two formats of a shortened systematic review to a full-length systematic review to be used in clinical decision-making.

Two shortened systematic review formats were developed to enhance their use in clinical decision making. An online randomized controlled trial is planned to make comparisons of the shortened formats to a full-length systematic review. To prepare for the full-scale trial, a pilot study will be conducted to test methods and procedures in order to refine the processes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Physicians who were in practice full- or part-time at study enrollment were recruited for participation
• Participants had to have access to the Internet as the study was conducted online.

Exclusion Criteria:

• The systematic reviews in all formats were only available in English, thus any participants who were not able to read and understand English were not eligible to participate.
• Anyone who had taken part in any phase of the development of the shortened versions of the systematic reviews (cased-based or evidence-expertise formats) were not eligible for recruitment.