Discussion: Evidence-Based and Non-Evidence-Based Programs
Evidence-based treatments or programs are those interventions in the field of healthcare that their efficacy is premised and backed by existing scientific evidence. In this regard, any treatment plan or therapeutic programs must be supported with evidence from extensive research that was documented and through peer reviews, proven successful and justified for the plan to be effectively evaluated (McKibbon, 1998). One essential goal of the evidence-based program is to promote the use of safe, impactful, proven programs that would result to effective results that are backed up by results and simultaneously lessen the application of unjustified and unsafe treatments could potentially exacerbate the morbidity of the symptoms among patients (McKibbon, 1998).
Since its formulation in 1993, evidence-based practice has proven critical in various ways. First, it has ensured that the treatment and other medical interventions that are used are backed by research and positive results. One reason why EBP is encouraged by various healthcare institutions is to ensure that the treatment of therapeutic interventions that are put in place in a treatment plan does not risk the lives of individuals (McKibbon, 1998). Therefore, in most cases, the use of EBP have proven essential in eradicating unsafe medical practices and decreased the instances of morbidity among patients. Again, EBP has played an important role in improving the healthcare outcomes among multiple patients as the interventions associated with are well researched and backed with positive results (McKibbon, 1998).
On the same note, the use of EBP in healthcare facilities has influenced the treatment of addiction in different ways. Initially, the treatment for addiction was mainly premised on pharmacological interventions and highlighting the criminal aspect that is related to addiction. However, through the use of EBP in various interventions related to addiction, instances such as holistic medical interventions that typify the use of pharmacological interventions and psychotherapy among other interventions (Glasner-Edwards & Rawson, 2010). Again, since addiction could lead to mental health issues, EBP has provided a platform upon which such concerns could be effectively addressed as it integrates the best existing research with clinical expertise based on the holistic attribute of the patient (Glasner-Edwards & Rawson, 2010). Such aspects are relatively influential in the treatment of addiction among patients.
References
Glasner-Edwards, S., & Rawson, R. (2010). Evidence-based practices in addiction treatment: Review and recommendations for public policy. Health policy, 97(2-3), 93-104.
McKibbon, K. A. (1998). Evidence-based practice. Bulletin of the medical library association, 86(3), 396.