Practice guidelines and prediction rules should be subject to careful clinical testing

Article Abstract:

All practice guidelines and prediction rules should be tested to determine whether they improve patient care. These guidelines and rules are developed to help physicians diagnose and treat diseases. A 1997 study found that a prediction rule to determine the effectiveness of X-rays in evaluating ankle injuries was effective in reducing unnecessary X-rays. The fact that the rules were developed in Canada and tested in France illustrates the portability of these rules. Most drugs are thoroughly tested before they are used and the same should be true of practice guidelines.

Editorial, Testing, Practice guidelines (Medicine)

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Public opinion about public health - California and the United States, 1996

Article Abstract:

Many Americans believe specific public health measures are very important and may even support increased taxes to pay for them. A survey of 4,803 California residents found that about 80% believed that safe foods and drinking water were a very high priority but only one-third believed the provision of safe food and water was being done effectively. Many supported increased taxes on tobacco and alcohol products as well as increased state income taxes on the wealthy to pay for more effective services. A poll of 1,004 Americans nationwide revealed similar concerns.

Public health, Public opinion

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