Background
There are multiple gaps between evidence and practice
in our health system. The relatively new concept of
‘therapeutic inertia’ is useful to understand why these
gaps persist. It is defined as ‘failure of healthcare providers
to initiate or intensify therapy when indicated’ and
‘recognition of the problem, but failure to act’.
Objective
This article explores the development of therapeutic inertia
and its causes, and other concepts useful in closing gaps in
general practice, including addressing emotional decisional
making by doctors.
Discussion
Clinical inertia is the original term used to describe
gaps in practice; and therapeutic inertia is now used
interchangeably with it. The author illustrates his practice’s
approach to overcoming therapeutic inertia. The National
Institute for Clinical Studies was set up in Australia to
get the best available evidence from health and medical
research into everyday practice to help close these gaps.
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