Practising GPs teaching medical students evidence based medicine--a questionnaire survey.

BACKGROUND The characteristics of practising general practitioners who teach evidence based medicine (EBM) during their clinical work--and their attitudes toward it--are poorly known. METHODS One hundred and twenty-two Canberra GPs who previously had medical students attend their practice were sent a questionnaire on their education, experience, knowledge, confidence, and attitudes toward teaching EBM. RESULTS Eighty-three (68%) GPs responded, 13% had postgraduate EBM training, and 20% taught EBM. A further 28% of GPs denied they were teachers of EBM but had asked students to find evidence to answer questions about patient care. Seventy-six percent of GPs could understand and explain at least one EBM term, and 17% over five terms. Most GPs welcomed EBM into their clinical work and agreed EBM improved students' learning. Barriers to teaching included a perceived lack of time, staff support, and the need for more EBM teacher training. DISCUSSION Although few GPs had trained in EBM, many were teaching it. University teaching programs should build on GP confidence in EBM teaching.