Impact of Implementing EBP on Organizational Performance

Evidence-based practice (EBP) means using the best available scientific evidence to guide decisions. EBP is of interest to managers in many types of organizations. Implementation of EBP is challenging. A medical organization seeking to adopt EBP must, for example, train clinicians in EBP skills and alter clinical practice resources, norms, structures and incentives away from professional standards toward scientific and technical criteria. This study examined the ramifications of the implementation of EBP as an innovation in a population of mental-health service agencies. The framework is developed as a system dynamics simulation model based on existing literature, organizational theory, and key informant interviews with mental health services administrators and clinical directors. The study yielded a deeper understanding of the dynamics associated with innovation implementation.

Project Goals

• Develop a system dynamics simulation model to consider how evidence-based practice implementation impacts organizational performance
• Explore the implications of innovation implementation and moving from professional standards toward scientific and technical criteria
• Help develop a framework for regional and state policymakers to design more sustainable policies for implementing innovations that can improve mental health

Publication