Article type
Abstract
Background:
Evidence-based practice (EBP) should be complemented by evidence-based implementation. Implementation Science (IS) enables the systematic uptake of EBP into routine practice, to improve service effectiveness and quality. Traditionally, the approach to EBP teaching and practice has focussed primarily on asking answerable questions, searching available literature and appraising the literature for its quality and applicability. However, there has been less focus on the ‘how’ of applying EBP in practice.
Aim:
To support the translation of evidence into practice at a national level, through communication of evidence, knowledge translation and exchange.
Methods:
We adopted a multifaceted approach of implementation drivers and levers across health and social care, education, and regulation.
Implementation levers including legislation, policy, regulation and capacity-building were introduced into the Irish healthcare system to support the translation of research evidence into practice. As part of the strategy, a suite of national interventions were developed:
a) a national EBP special interest group was established.
b) a competency framework on clinical effectiveness was co-designed.
c) continuing professional development courses for clinicians on EBP, with an implementation science focus, were hosted over a 5-year period.
d) an online toolkit for educator upskilling developed.
Results:
The introduction of a suite of implementation levers at national level has created effective bridges between policy and practice. The outputs of this multifaceted strategic approach have been positively evaluated with stakeholders, participants and end users citing the following benefits: “Practical aspects of bringing EBP to patients”, “Connection of theory to real world practice” and “Applying information in practice”.
Conclusion:
Through tailored implementation strategies and careful consideration of context, the successful adoption and sustainability of evidence-based healthcare can be optimised. Implementation levers form part of a suite of national integrated implementation measures introduced in the Irish healthcare system to support the application of research evidence into practice, translating and disseminating evidence, for better quality health services.
Evidence-based practice (EBP) should be complemented by evidence-based implementation. Implementation Science (IS) enables the systematic uptake of EBP into routine practice, to improve service effectiveness and quality. Traditionally, the approach to EBP teaching and practice has focussed primarily on asking answerable questions, searching available literature and appraising the literature for its quality and applicability. However, there has been less focus on the ‘how’ of applying EBP in practice.
Aim:
To support the translation of evidence into practice at a national level, through communication of evidence, knowledge translation and exchange.
Methods:
We adopted a multifaceted approach of implementation drivers and levers across health and social care, education, and regulation.
Implementation levers including legislation, policy, regulation and capacity-building were introduced into the Irish healthcare system to support the translation of research evidence into practice. As part of the strategy, a suite of national interventions were developed:
a) a national EBP special interest group was established.
b) a competency framework on clinical effectiveness was co-designed.
c) continuing professional development courses for clinicians on EBP, with an implementation science focus, were hosted over a 5-year period.
d) an online toolkit for educator upskilling developed.
Results:
The introduction of a suite of implementation levers at national level has created effective bridges between policy and practice. The outputs of this multifaceted strategic approach have been positively evaluated with stakeholders, participants and end users citing the following benefits: “Practical aspects of bringing EBP to patients”, “Connection of theory to real world practice” and “Applying information in practice”.
Conclusion:
Through tailored implementation strategies and careful consideration of context, the successful adoption and sustainability of evidence-based healthcare can be optimised. Implementation levers form part of a suite of national integrated implementation measures introduced in the Irish healthcare system to support the application of research evidence into practice, translating and disseminating evidence, for better quality health services.