Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) is the combination of clinical expertise and values with the best, most current evidence from research to make the best patient care decisions. (You'll also see it referred to as EBP Evidence-Based Practice.)
There is a common misconception that EBP and research are one in the same. Not true! While there are similarities, one of the fundamental differences lies in their purpose:
► Research: To generate new knowledge or validate existing knowledge based on theory.
► Evidence-Based Practice: To use best available evidence to make informed patient-care decisions.
In contrast, the purpose of EBP isn’t about developing new knowledge or validating existing knowledge—it’s about translating the evidence and applying it to clinical practice and decision-making. Most of the best evidence stems from research, but EBP goes beyond research and includes the clinical expertise of the clinician and healthcare teams, as well as patient preferences and values.
Source: What is Evidence-Based Practice? (University of Utah)
Image Source: HealthCatalyst, 2015
What is Evidence-Based Practice? (University of Utah)
^This link provides a comprehensive overview of EBP.
Why is Evidence-Based Practice so Important?
^This link provides definitions and a brief historical overview of EBP.
