Who would take an Evidence-Based Health Care History and Philosophy short course?

When thinking about Evidence-Based medicine (EBM), philosophy probably isn’t the first thing that springs to mind.

As module lead of the History and Philosophy of Evidence-Based Health care course Dr Jonathan Livingstone-Banks says in his blog ‘What does Philosophy have to do with Evidence-Based Health Care?’:

‘Philosophy is notoriously abstract. Imagine a philosopher and you might conjure up images of a somewhat impractical person, sat in a parlour fancifully asking ‘why?’ without giving much thought to the ‘how’. So, what could such a person contribute to medicine, one of the most practical and useful disciplines going?

Evidence-based health care (EBHC) especially conjures (to my mind, at least) images of diligent hands-on people, treating patients or using rigorous empirical methods to research the best ways to improve people’s health. What could be more far removed?

Well, here’s the thing: EBHC is itself a philosophical position!’

Over the past couple of years, we’ve had a very diverse range of people who were intrigued to find out more and came to Oxford to take our History and Philosophy of Evidence-Based Health Care short course, either as part of their master’s, or as a standalone short course.

Students ranged from medical practitioners, including specialist registrars, medical doctors, a podiatrist, a midwife and research nurse, through academics - an associate professor and the chair of a department of osteopathic manipulative medicine, to clinical project managers, founders and CEOs of health tech companies, care assessment officers and a solicitor. Alongside those based in the UK, students travelled to Oxford from mainland Europe, North America and the UAE, amongst other places.

And what did they think of the course?

MSc in EBHC student and Oxford-based solicitor Tim Fraser shared his experience:

‘The History and Philosophy of Evidence-Based Health Care module is a highly engaging and intellectually stimulating learning experience. The module encouraged me to consider the broader and underlying elements of evidence-based medicine, including its basic, fundamental principles. This understanding has strengthened the way in which I apply evidence-based medicine in my current practice. The module perfectly brought together everything I have learned on the course so far, while significantly advancing my own research focus. I would highly recommend the module.’

Ayurvedic physician from India Dr Eeshani Bendale, also an EBHC master's student commented:

‘The History and Philosophy of Evidence-Based Health Care module was one of my most enriching experiences on the MSc in Evidence-Based Health Care. As an Ayurvedic physician from India, the module encouraged me to explore the nuances of EBM through a unique lens. My tutor, Jonathan Livingstone-Banks, was incredibly open-minded, supportive and encouraging. The module fostered an environment that welcomed diverse perspectives and novel conversations. I highly recommend this module to anyone who is curious about exploring the field of Evidence-Based Health Care through an interdisciplinary and comprehensive point of view.’

So why not find out more, both by reading Jonathan’s blog and checking out the course details?

It could be just the course you’re looking for!

The History and Philosophy of Evidence-Based Health Care course runs from Monday 30 June – Friday 4 July, at Rewley House in Oxford. Apply now to secure your spot.