They can then consider their own practice behaviours in light of this data. There seems to be an overemphasis on developing new CPGs, rather than on adapting those guidelines that have already been developed in other jurisdictions. For example, several provinces have produced or are producing their own guidelines for PSA testing. The creation and transfer of knowledge does not change behaviour in and of itself. Focus must also be placed on the specific ways in which people adopt new knowledge.
Public education is another issue.
One driver of physician behaviour is what the public expects when they walk in the door. Mechanisms must be found that will encourage only appropriate interventions. There is a gap between evidence and activity, and someone must be designated to take on the responsibility of identifying the most effective procedures or tests. The debate is surprisingly polite - even when presented with examples of obvious wastes in resources. Inform people as to what efforts are being made in the different jurisdictions across Canada to improve coordination of the various research initiatives.