BCC Lam

Abstract

In recent years, the development of evidence based Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) has received increasing attention from medical professionals, and has been initiated at both central and local levels. Both the Paediatric Quality Assurance Sub-committee of the Hospital Authority and the Hong Kong College of Paediatricians have formed working groups to develop evidence-based CPG. This review article outlines the potential benefits and harms of CPG for patients and health care professionals. It helps the practitioners to use objective criteria to evaluate the quality of guidelines. It deals with the process of guideline development from selection of topics to dissemination and implementation. Mechanisms of behavioural change that have been recognised as being important for implementation are also discussed. The issues on conflict of clinical freedom and medico-legal implication of clinical guideline are also highlighted. This article aims at improving clinicians' understanding towards CPG and helps to promote an appropriate attitude and culture among Paediatricians towards evidence-based clinical practice.