EVIDENCE-BASED MEDICINE AS A FACTOR IN IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF OBSTETRIC AND PERINATAL CARE IN MODERN HEALTHCARE

Evidence-based medicine (EBM) implies conscientious, rational and systematic use of the best current scientific evidence in making clinical decisions. In obstetric and perinatal care, the EBM approach is a key methodological foundation for protecting the health of mothers and newborns, early detection of complications, ensuring safe childbirth and efficient use of medical resources. The article describes the historical development of EBM, the hierarchy of evidence, and the importance of scales for assessing the level of evidence (YHQ) and the strength of recommendations (UUR) when developing clinical protocols/guidelines. It also discusses the “structure–process–outcome” approach to quality management in obstetric services, practical challenges in primary care (documentation flow, lack of time, limited diagnostic capacity, staff competencies), and ways to improve efficiency by identifying high‑risk groups and rationally using perinatal center capacities. In conclusion, the implementation of EBM‑based protocols, clinical audit and indicator systems, a patient‑centered approach, and digital decision‑support tools can ensure sustainable improvement in the quality of obstetric and perinatal care.