What Is Evidence-Based Medicine and Why It Matters for Your Family
At My Pediatrician Friend, we believe every parent deserves to feel confident, informed, and supported when making decisions about their child’s health. That’s where Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) comes in.
EBM is a systematic approach to healthcare that combines three essential ingredients:
The best available scientific research
Your doctor’s clinical expertise
Your family’s values and preferences
It’s not about “one-size-fits-all” care. Instead, EBM uses data from large studies to understand what treatments have worked best for many children in the past, while still recognizing that your child is unique. It’s about asking: What’s the best we know today? and How does that apply to your situation?
Your Voice Matters
EBM is a conversation, not a prescription. It encourages you to talk openly with your doctor: ask questions, express concerns, and share what matters most to your family. A good doctor will always listen, explain, and collaborate with you. And if they don’t? That’s where MPF steps in.
We’re here to bridge the gap—to help you understand your options, find trustworthy information, and prepare for those big conversations. No question is too small. No worry is silly.
Real-Life Example of EBM in Action:
Ear Infections: Not all require antibiotics - sometimes, waiting is better.
The table below shows some common recommendations your pediatrician might make based on what they see when examining your child’s ears using an otoscope (the lighted tool they shine into the ear). For example, if there’s visible ear drainage and a confirmed middle ear infection, antibiotics are typically recommended. But in other cases, especially if symptoms are mild or one-sided, watchful waiting may be just as effective.
Watchful waiting is based on the idea that mild ear infections can resolve on their own, typically within 24 to 48 hours. It can help prevent the overuse of antibiotics and reduce side effects. That being said, if symptoms persist after 72 hours or worsen, such as your child spiking a fever, it’s time to call your pediatrician, and they will likely prescribe antibiotics to be sent to your pharmacy.
For example, when my (non-pediatrician mom here) little one had his third ear infection in the span of about three months, I really did not want to put him on antibiotics right away because the antibiotics upset his stomach and affected his eating. Given the circumstances (one ear, middle infection, no drainage, under 2 years old), I talked with my pediatrician and we chose to watchfully wait over the weekend. Unfortunately, in that case, my son spiked a fever that Sunday night, and we had to go through another round of antibiotics starting that Monday. However, I felt better about that decision because my son ate better that weekend, and the following round of antibiotics settled better on his stomach. His following ear infection resolved on its own within the waiting period, and I had peace of mind knowing I could help my child and be more involved in his medical care.
Here are a few questions you can ask your pediatrician to help decide what’s best for your child:
“Since you didn’t see any drainage, would waiting on antibiotics be helpful?”
“Last time my child had a reaction to antibiotics, can we try a different one if needed?”
“This infection is in both ears, but there are no other symptoms. Since my child is over 2, could we wait before starting treatment?”
As always, the decision should be based on your child’s symptoms, age, and medical history. It’s okay to ask questions until you feel comfortable with the plan.
From One Parent to Another
As moms, we get it—each child is different. What works for one may not work for another. That’s why partnering with a doctor who respects your parenting style, your concerns, and your family is key.
Evidence-Based Medicine empowers your doctor to make informed decisions and empowers YOU to be part of the process.
MPF is here to be your trusted guide, your extra set of ears, and your support system along the way.
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References
Tenny S, Varacallo MA. Evidence-Based Medicine. [Updated 2024 Sep 10]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470182/
Allan S. Lieberthal, Aaron E. Carroll, Tasnee Chonmaitree, Theodore G. Ganiats, Alejandro Hoberman, Mary Anne Jackson, Mark D. Joffe, Donald T. Miller, Richard M. Rosenfeld, Xavier D. Sevilla, Richard H. Schwartz, Pauline A. Thomas, David E. Tunkel; The Diagnosis and Management of Acute Otitis Media. Pediatrics March 2013; 131 (3): e964–e999. 10.1542/peds.2012-3488