Design, development, and evaluation of printed educational materials for evidence-based practice dissemination

Area of Science:

• Health communication
• Dissemination and implementation science

Background:

• Printed educational materials (PEMs) are common for disseminating evidence-based practices (EBPs) to healthcare professionals.
• Conflicting evidence exists on the effectiveness of PEMs, with development quality being a key factor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review best practices for creating PEMs for health professionals.
• To design, develop, and evaluate an informational packet on motivational interviewing using these best practices.

Main Methods:

• An informational packet on motivational interviewing was sent to 92 community health organizations.
• Evaluation surveys were completed by 212 healthcare directors and providers.

Main Results:

• The packet was perceived as appropriate and helpful for deciding to implement motivational interviewing.
• 75.9% planned to use the information, and 46.7% shared it.
• Baseline interest in motivational interviewing and positive attitudes toward EBPs predicted packet use and resource engagement.

Conclusions:

• PEMs can effectively disseminate EBP information to healthcare professionals.
• Effectiveness is enhanced when professionals have prior interest in the EBP and supportive attitudes toward EBPs.