Longitudinal analysis of integrating evidence-based medicine into a medical student curriculum.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is an important tool for lifelong learning by medical students. This study aimed to determine changes in self-reported attitudes and skills after integration of EBM into a medical school curriculum.

METHODS: A pre- and post-intervention study was conducted at the Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University in Thailand during 2005-2007. Fourth-year medical students were instructed in EBM by a team promoting EBM and then practiced EBM under supervision of faculty advisors. We then evaluated changes in attitude and skills before studying EBM (T0) and at two points (T1 and T2) after learning about EBM. Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon Sign Rank test and a generalized linear multilevel model.

RESULTS: After integration of EBM into the curriculum, the students' attitudes and skills at T1 and T2 were improved significantly compared to ratings at T0.

CONCLUSIONS: Medical students developed a positive attitude toward EBM and improved their skills after integration of EBM into a medical school curriculum.