The Institute of Medicine (IOM) set a goal that by 2020, 90% of health care decisions should be evidence-based. However, it is estimated that less than 10% of decisions currently utilize best evidence (Institute of Medicine, 2012). Bridging the gap between research findings and practice implementation is a critical strategy in achieving this important goal. In this assignment, we will explore the gaps between research findings and their implementation in practice, using the resources available on the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) website.
To begin, let’s review the AHRQ website to select a practice from their comparative effectiveness research site. Comparative effectiveness research (CER) focuses on comparing the benefits and harms of different interventions to inform healthcare decisions. It aims to improve patient outcomes and support more informed decision-making by providing evidence about the effectiveness of different healthcare interventions in real-world settings.
Once we have selected a practice from the AHRQ CER site, we will examine the extent to which the practice is currently being implemented. This assessment will involve reviewing relevant literature, guidelines, and policies to determine the level of adoption and utilization of the practice in the healthcare system.
After assessing the implementation of the practice, we will evaluate the barriers that may hinder its widespread use in practice. These barriers can include factors at the individual, organizational, and system levels. Examples of barriers may include lack of awareness or knowledge about the practice, resistance to change, resource constraints, and organizational culture.
To overcome these barriers, we will propose strategies and interventions that can be implemented to facilitate the adoption of the practice. These may include educational initiatives, quality improvement interventions, changes in policies or guidelines, and technological solutions. The proposed strategies should be evidence-based and tailored to address the specific barriers identified.
Finally, we will explore the resources available on the selected site that can inform the translation of research findings into practice. These resources may include clinical practice guidelines, implementation toolkits, training materials, and other evidence-based resources that can support healthcare professionals in implementing the practice effectively and efficiently.
It is important to note that this assignment requires a real-world application. This means that the findings and recommendations must be based on evidence-based data, contemporary theories, and concepts presented in the course. The final paper should present a viable application of the findings in a current practice setting, demonstrating how the implementation of the practice can improve patient outcomes and support evidence-based decision-making.
In conclusion, this assignment will provide an opportunity to explore the gaps between research findings and their implementation in practice. By selecting a practice from the AHRQ CER site, assessing its implementation, evaluating barriers, proposing strategies to overcome the barriers, and exploring available resources, we will gain a better understanding of how to bridge the gap between research and practice. This will contribute to the overall goal of increasing the use of evidence-based practice in healthcare decision-making, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
