Grant: CIHR Café Scientifique Program

The CLARITY Group within the Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics at McMaster University has been dedicated to teaching the principles of evidence-based medicine. This internationally recognized group has published in the peer-reviewed medical literature and authored medical books on a variety of topics. Representing the CLARITY Group at this Café Scientifique will be Dr. Gordon Guyatt, who was the originator of the phrase, 'evidence-based medicine', Dr. Philip Devereaux and Dr. Jason Busse. Dr. Guyatt has travelled extensively and has contributed at international forums on this topic. A specialist in cardiology, Dr. Devereaux is an active investigator of perioperative vascular medicine in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery. Dr. Busse has an interest in orthopedic trauma, chronic pain and other medically unexplained syndromes, and management of complex disability. These proposed panel speakers demonstrate expertise or previous experience in scientific public outreach activities. The principles of evidence-based medicine are such as to guide medical and health policy decision- making by providing relevant information in order to proceed with informed choices. The impact of evidence-based medicine has been large with influences in academia, government and the private sector. The public are affected by evidence-based medicine. But it is unclear whether the public has a true appreciation of evidence-based medicine. Moreover, the opportunity to query experts on this topic will be made available to the public such that the public has an appreciation of this concept and how it affects patient care. This event will be advertised via public libraries. In addition, a local community newspaper, SNAP, will be invited to the event. The event will be held on October 7, 2010 at the University Club with delightful refreshments and hors d'oeuvres.