Perceptions towards evidence based practice among oral health professionalsin Mangalore, India. -

Background:-Evidence based practice (EBP) is a way to transfer evidence obtained from research into everyday provision of health care services. A dentist should not only know about the sources to obtain evidence, but also be able to critically assess the mountain of research studies available. This study was aimed to determine EBP knowledge, attitudes, confidence in critical appraisal skills and methods for accessing evidence among oral health professionals in Mangalore, India. Material and method:-We used a standardized and validated 36 item EBP KACE (Knowledge, Attitudes, Confidence and Evidence) questionnaire which consisted of 4 domains, Knowledge of Critical Appraisal, Attitudes about Evidence-Based Practice, Confidence in Critical Appraisal Skills and Accessing Evidence. Statistical analysis was performed using student?s t test, binary logistic regression and bivariate correlation tests. Results:-A total of 133 males and 231 females took part in the study (n=364). Participants were divided into interns, postgraduate students and specialists. Mean knowledge of postgraduates (2.45; SD 1.2) was highest. Attitudes levels were similar for postgraduates (4.4; SD 2.5) and undergraduates (4.7; SD 2.6). Postgraduate students were more aware of newer methods of accessing evidence (4.1; SD 2.0) (p < 0.01) compared to others. Conclusions:-Postgraduates had greater knowledge of EBP and better ideas of ways to access evidence. The undergraduates showed a positive attitude and interest towards evidence based practice. Hence, making evidence based practice a formalized part of dental curriculum would enable young dentists to make optimal treatment decisions essential in the interest of the patient as well as the community. - See moreat: