Futile Knowledge: The Abyss Between Evidence-based Research, Policy and Practice in Health

• In Event: 088 - Section on Sociological Practice and Public Sociology Roundtable Session (one-hour).
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 02. Assessing Public Health(s): Methodological Issues, Theoretical Choices

Abstract

Background & Purpose:

There is a significant literature addressing the need for evidence-based research to guide policy and practice (Epstein & Dodd, 2012; Gibbs & Gambrill, 2002; Shaw, 2003, 2004). There are no studies of social workers' knowledge of, attitudes toward, and use of evidence-based research in specific practice settings. The study addresses social worker and nurse knowledge of, use of, and attitudes toward specific evidence-based care interventions for persons with Alzheimer’s disease receiving Medicare home health and their caregivers.

Methods:

A mailed survey was administered to home care social workers (n = 127) and home care nurses (n = 321) between October 2012 and May 2013. Subjects were recruited using lists from the New York State Nurses Association, NASW-New York City Chapter, and NASW-New York State Chapter.

Preliminary Results:


• 92% of nurses and social workers combined had no knowledge of the two specific psychosocial interventions, with social workers' lack of knowledge being higher (98%);
• 98% of social workers and nurses combined have not used either of the two specified interventions in practice;
• 88% of social workers and 95% of nurses responded they were taught evidence-based practice (EBP) in their education;
• 100% of social workers and 92% of nurses responded that Medicare policy limited their ability to use evidence-based practices;
• 96% of nurses and social workers combined responded that the inability to use EBP increased unmet patient & caregiver needs.

Author

• William Dane Cabin, Richard Stockton College