GETTING THE MOST FROM REVIEW ARTICLES - A GUIDE FOR READERS AND WRITERS

A good medical review article is easily readable and pares down the se emingly overwhelming amount of information available in the literature . The research experience and clinical expertise of the writer do not guarantee valid and relevant recommendations. Uncritical acceptance of information by readers further potentiates the dissemination of misin formation. Only through teamwork, with each partner-both writer and re ader-taking responsibility for a role, can review articles result in i mproved patient care. This article offers guidance to both consumers a nd producers-readers and writer-of review articles.