A leadership focus on evidence-based practice: tools for successful implementation.
OBJECTIVE
Case managers grapple with best methods to infuse case management evidence into their practice. This article examines the role of each case manager as a leader in evidence-based practice (EBP) and emphasizes proven strategies for case management leaders to move EBP into their case management environment. Special focus is placed on steps to establish a practice culture supportive of EBP, creating the organizational infrastructure to support EBP, and practical tips for success.


METHODS
This article applies to any case management practice setting.


CONCLUSIONS
Employing a systematic model to move the evidence into the case management practice setting results in improved patient, case manager, and organizational outcomes.


CONCLUSIONS
Case management service provision based on the established evidence base creates a more legally and ethically sound practice. A change in practice to EBP will increase individual case managers' leadership abilities, thus establishing a stronger and more satisfied employee base. Utilization of a well-planned approach to incorporate evidence into practice results in higher levels of success and improves patient and organizational outcomes.
MacRobert
Margo
M
Institute for Evidence-Based Practice in Case Management at University of Oklahoma Health Sciences' Center College of Nursing, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, USA. macrobert@ouhsc.edu
D019090:Case Management / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004059:Diffusion of Innovation; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine / Q000193:education / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007857:Leadership; D017146:Models, Organizational; D015279:Organizational Culture; D009936:Organizational Innovation; D009937:Organizational Objectives; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010934:Planning Techniques; D011361:Professional Competence; D024382:Professional Role; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D017749:Total Quality Management / Q000458:organization & administration