Evidence-Based Practice and Occupational Therapy

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Abstract
Occupational therapists, like other health care professionals, are constantly being asked to confront major changes in the way health and social care services are structured and, in turn, how their working practices are organised. In order for the market-driven National Health Service to function, it requires detailed information on whether services are clinically effective. The use of evidence-based practice has been widely advocated as one way to meet these demands. This article focuses on evidence-based practice as an approach, and considers its implications and relevance for occupational therapists. First, a short history of the background of evidence-based practice is given, followed by a discussion of recent social and political developments which have increased demands for its wider use. A number of key issues associated with evidence-based practice are then considered, including implementing research findings into practice; the nature of evidence itself; time; the accessibility of research findings; and skills required for evidence-based practice. Practical suggestions are also offered to enable therapists to make the most appropriate use of evidence-based practice. The aim of this article is to stimulate debate about evidence-based decision making for practitioners.