In “Tools for Implementing an Evidence-Based Approach in Public Health Practice,” Jacobs et al. (2012) provide the results of their research of open-access tools aimed at meeting the evidence-based public health (EBPH) needs. The paper contains a brief analysis of resources and programs developed for practitioners and recommendations on their implementation. The authors claim that an evidence-based approach needs to be used in medical practice for improving public health.
The paper covers the main issues related to the evidence-based approach. Jacobs et al. (2012) point out that there is insufficient funding and a lack of skilled staff, initiatives, and time, emphasizing the need for hands-on training for medical workers. The authors further state that crucial elements of the EBPH approach include using program planning frameworks, making community evaluations, and spreading new knowledge (Jacobs et al., 2012). In doing so, practitioners can search for resources and find evidence that can be tailored to their needs.
Several resources are discussed in the article, including online resources with easy access, popular internet search engines, and gray literature. Later on, Jacobs et al. (2012) indicate how qualitative and quantitative methods and community data assessment can help develop an understanding of what changes need to be made in public health practice. The program evaluation is another tool that can contribute to achieving program objectives. As a result, the EBPH approach should be used to improve performance in the public health sector and the quality of life.
The authors conclude that the evidence-based approach involves the community in decision making and helps provide reliable evidence for practitioners. The public health sector needs practical tools and confirmed strategies to provide quality care for the population, and dissemination of data is particularly essential. Implementing an evidence-based approach improves access to information and proven practices and supports practitioners, which results in better healthcare.
References
Jacobs, J. A., Jones, E., Gabella, B. A., Spring, B., Brownson, R. C. (2012). Tools for implementing an evidence-based approach in public health practice. Prevention of Chronic Disease, 9.