Implementation of an Evidence-Based Care Program Within a Multihospital Health Care System

The need for evidence-based guidance at the local hospital level is challenged by lack of clinician resources to critically appraise and synthesize evidence, and the applicability and timing of external evidence reviews are not always ideal for local settings. BJC HealthCare established an Evidence-Based Care (EBC) program to address evidence synthesis needs within the organization using a standardized rapid review process. From 2012 to 2016, 377 rapid reviews were completed. Common review topics included supplies or technology (23%), infection prevention (20%), and patient safety (18%). The median turnaround time for reviews was 22 calendar days (16 business days). Of the 68% (28/41) of review requestors who responded to a survey, 89% agreed or strongly agreed that EBC's review informed their project or final decision, and 93% indicated that they likely would request a review in the future. Using rapid review methodology, an EBC program delivered timely and relevant evidence for local decision making.