Factors influencing evidence-based practice in prosthetics and orthotics

The importance of evidence-based practice is being recognized across a broad range of healthcare disciplines as a means for improving patient outcomes and also efficiently managing healthcare resources.

The objective of this work was to obtain information from clinicians about the underlying barriers and facilitators relating to evidence-based practice in prosthetics and orthotics.

Cross sectional survey.

An internet survey was developed and distributed to 300 prosthetists and orthotists currently practicing in Canada.

A principal component factor analysis of the survey results revealed ten primary factors affecting evidence-based practice. These include time constraints, workload and system demands, limited relevant evidence from research, and gaps in skills and knowledge required to perform evidence-based practice.

Clinicians value research as a means of improving clinical practice, but they are faced with a number of practical barriers in performing evidence-based practice.

This study provides empirical data about the underlying barriers and facilitators relating to evidence-based practice in prosthetics and orthotics. Such data are essential in order to inform those involved in improving existing clinical practices, including educators, professional organizations, and governing bodies.