Evidence-based practice (EBP) improves patient care and patient outcomes. In laboratory medicine, EBP can directly impact the testing methodologies chosen, the results reported, the interpretations provided, and how the results are displayed to clinicians.
The principles of EBP can be used to support decision-making at all levels. EBP aims to improve quality practices, decrease medical errors, and improve patient outcomes while maximizing cost efficiency. The clinical laboratory has a vital role to play in evidence-based practice. The current challenges facing health care will likely only be met by adopting an evidence-based approach to laboratory medicine.
