EbM - Information Centre for Physicians

Literature searches & evidence syntheses

We conduct comprehensive, professional literature searches. From the search results, we select the studies that best answer the clinical question. The methodological quality of the selected studies is then assessed, and the findings are summarized in a clear and easy-to-understand rapid review.

Since 2008, we have supported hospital physicians in Lower Austria with literature searches and evidence syntheses. As part of Cochrane Austria, we work according to the highest methodological standards. In contrast to AI-generated answers, we provide quality-assured evidence syntheses created by physicians for physicians.

This service is unique in Austria. Currently, more than 300 rapid reviews from various specialties are available on our website ebminfo.at.

Study lists for presentations or expert reports

Our information specialists carry out systematic literature searches in several medical databases (e.g. Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed). The team then selects the publications relevant to the specific question using a standardized two-step process.

Guideline check for informed decisions

For many issues in everyday clinical practice, medical guidelines developed by professional societies are already available. However, their quality varies considerably. We identify the relevant guidelines for a given question and assess their quality, enabling physicians to gain a sound overview quickly.

Lectures & workshops

We teach the fundamentals of evidence-based medicine and the critical appraisal of medical literature in a practice-oriented and accessible way, tailored to the needs of clinicians.

Our services at a glance

• Preparation of rapid reviews addressing concrete clinical questions for all physicians in Austria, independent of industry interests. Where methodologically appropriate, meta-analyses can also be conducted as part of the rapid review.
• Creation of clear, structured study lists for everyday clinical work, for preparing presentations, developing guidelines, or drafting medical expert reports.
• Promotion of evidence-based practice in everyday clinical work, both in private practice and in hospitals.
• Continuing education on various topics in evidence-based medicine at conferences or in workshops.
• Advice and consulting on methods of evidence-based medicine, such as critical appraisal of medical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, guideline development, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

Further information on the “Evidence-based Medicine Information Centre for Physicians” is available at ebminfo.at.