This report traces the history and development of evidence-based medicine (EBM) and weighs the potential impact of the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM) guidelines by comparing ACOEM guideline recommendations to existing treatment and disability patterns among injured workers in California. The analysis modeled detailed medical and disability data from more than 1 million workplace injuries reflecting $8.6 billion in workers’ compensation benefit payments. The study found that applying the objective ACOEM guideline criteria could significantly increase quality of care, reduce unnecessary medical costs and facilitate return-to-work for the low-back injuries.
Evidence Based Medicine & The California Workers’ Compensation System
