What characterizes 'evidence-based medicine'?

Evidence-based medicine is characterized by the integration of the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values. This approach emphasizes the importance of using current scientific research to inform medical decisions while also considering the individual preferences, circumstances, and values of each patient.

The essence of evidence-based medicine is to combine objective evidence gathered from clinical studies with the subjective clinical skills and experiences of the healthcare provider, thereby ensuring that care is personalized and grounded in sound scientific backing. This multifaceted approach leads to more effective and tailored patient care, ultimately improving health outcomes.

Other options do not align with this concept. For instance, relying solely on clinical experience overlooks the wealth of knowledge that current research can provide, while using traditional methods regardless of new findings limits the evolution of medical practice. Concentrating exclusively on patient history neglects the critical role that research evidence plays in informing treatment decisions.