Existentialism in Evidence-Based Practice : How consideration and inclusion of the inter-professional workforce can improve the teaching & implementation of evidence-based practice.

Abstract

November 17th 2006, saw the 1st UK conference for teachers & developers of Evidence-based Healthcare. Representative professions attended from a full range of clinical and academic backgrounds, to discuss the provision and implementation of evidence-based practice (EBP). A common goal, was to avoid the marginalisation of EBP, and yet the teaching of its related disciplines, often acts as a ‘turn-off’ to those we try to engage. In addition, there is a large professional populace that fails to actively participate in research, and the pursuit of EBP. The Sicily statement on evidence-based practice (2005), acknowledges that EBM is expanding into a ‘larger phenomenon’, as a wider spectrum of disciplines recognise the importance of evidence, to underpin healthcare decisions. However EBP is still focused upon a proportionately small sector of the overall healthcare employment sector. Given that both human resources and educational finances are limited in regard to the expansion of formal training within the area; it may be prudent to consider the broader workforce that delivers / implements the directives of EBM, and to adjust the manner in which EBP is represented, so as to engage the maximum number of those involved, at a level that can be both used and understood. Aims:  To illustrate the healthcare workforce dynamic (as related to the UK National Health Service) and the importance of inter-professional working.  To reiterate the common goal of all those involved in healthcare – the fulfillment of the health needs of society.  To encourage a wider communication, that serves to both empower and engage, those at all levels of healthcare delivery. Conclusions: The factual ‘existence’ of EBP is implemented within the qualitative ‘essence’ of EBHC. As such, careful consideration must be given to the practical implications of EBP, when applying its methodologies and results in the workplace.