Lawrence M. Friedman (2) (1942–)

In the past century, clinical research has grown dramatically as the number of questions about healthcare has increased. The current paradigm of evidence-based medicine describes the practice of prescribing medicines based on their tested strength instead of an individual’s limited experience. Of course, to make such judgments, a rich bed of research evidence needs to exist, and this book succinctly describes how such questions are investigated for eventual dissemination.

This book’s language is succinct and clearly intended for time-strapped researchers & physicians. It does not expand on or illustrate many of the concepts but presumes a high level of clinical knowledge among its readers. The audiobook version, which I listened to, is also abridged and does not contain contents of the full edition.

That said, it offers a comprehensive introduction to the topic. Indeed, I wonder whether re-listening to it might provide me with some benefits because I’m sure I missed a lot in its dense presentation. Even considered are newer topics like research designs besides a randomized clinical trial (the gold standard). The audiobook format provides a proper way to listen to-and-from work or during meal breaks.… (mer)