Can you be evidence-based today? Developing clinical expertise

A central question here is whether clinicians can realistically be truly evidence-based when the research output is far beyond what anyone can read. The speaker uses this problem to show that evidence-based practice is not just about consuming journal articles or collecting postgraduate certificates. Clinical expertise is presented as something broader: it develops through knowledge, experience, reasoning, and the ability to critically examine one’s own practice. Learners can expect a strong emphasis on self-reflection, being open to new ideas, and changing behaviour rather than simply learning more techniques. Observation, feedback, and shared learning are described as essential for improving practice. The summary also highlights the need to integrate research with patients’ personal narratives, social context, and the clinician’s experience. It warns against blind loyalty to methods, gadgets, certifications, or simplistic handouts. At the same time, it argues against abandoning biomedical reasoning: psychosocial factors matter, but clinicians must still recognise important medical diagnoses. Overall, the message is that better practice requires critical thinking, adaptability, and a balanced biopsychosocial approach.