What does Evidence-Based Practice mean?

Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) is a buzz word we are hearing a lot lately. Terminology matters, so it is important to make the distinction between EBP and Empirically Validated Treatment (EVT) to ensure we are all on the same page. People often think that EBP means EVT; however, this is not the case.

Empirically Validated Treatment (EVT):

• EVT includes research that has:

• Achieved a level or threshold of multiple experiments and publications with experimental control 

• A distinct set of manualized procedures

• A well-defined population

EVT can be considered an overly restrictive standard as it is typically only applicable to that particular distinct set of procedures and is often not applicable to complex methodologies usually seen in real world practice. Real life practice is not a one-size fits all approach so EVT’s are not always realistic in a speech therapy setting.

Evidence-Based Practice (EBP):

According to the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA), the American Psychological Association (APA) (among others), EBP refers to: the best available external research + values of patient/family + clinical expertise Therefore, EBP is not solely focused on the research but is rather basing one’s clinical practice on the evidence and incorporating other factors such as unique patient goals and previous clinical experiences.

According to (Crooke & Winner, 2017) an EBP may (or may not) be an EVT and an EVT may (or may not) meet the criteria for EBP. The terms are not interchangeable. Therefore, when thinking about having an EBP remember that in addition to implementing research and evidence it also requires incorporating your clinical expertise + your patient’s goals and values.

-Shannon

Reference List

Crooke, P & Winner, M.G. (2017). Social Thinking in the Landscape of Evidence-Based Practices. Sage Journals: Word of Mouth, 28(5), 5-8. 

Crooke, P. & Winner, M.G. (2017). Social Thinking® Methodology: Evidence-Based or Empirically Supported? A Response to Leaf et al. Behaviour Analysis in Practice. (2016).