Practice-based practice, also known as practice-based evidence, involves treatment approaches and supports that are developed from and supportive of the positive culture of the local society and traditions. This contrasts with evidence-based practice, which prioritizes research findings alongside clinical expertise and patient values. In essence, practice-based evidence roots its approaches in the lived experiences and values of the community.
Key Differences Between Practice-Based and Evidence-Based Practices
| Feature | Practice-Based Evidence | Evidence-Based Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Local culture, traditions, and community values. | Best research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values. |
| Source | Derived from community experience and supportive of local cultural practices. | Primarily based on findings from scientific research and clinical trials. |
| Application | Tailored to the specific cultural context and needs of a particular community. | Generally applicable across diverse populations but ideally should be adapted to individual patient needs. |
| Flexibility | Highly adaptable to evolving community norms and practices. | Requires flexibility to integrate evidence with individual patient needs and clinical expertise. |
| Perspective | Bottom-up approach, starts with practice and then gathers data. | Top-down approach where research is generally conducted and then applied to practice. |
Examples of Practice-Based Practice
- Traditional Healing Methods: Using established practices within a culture (such as herbal remedies) that have shown positive results within that community.
- Community-Specific Support Groups: Building support groups around existing social structures and cultural norms.
- Local Cultural Events: Integrating therapeutic activities within established cultural events to foster a more comfortable and relevant setting for participants.
Practical Insights
- Community Engagement: Engaging with community leaders and members is critical in developing effective practice-based approaches.
- Flexibility and Adaptation: Programs should be flexible and adaptable to changes within the local culture.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Practitioners must be culturally sensitive to ensure the practices are respectful and relevant.
- Focus on Strength: Practice-based methods often focus on the existing strengths and resilience within a community.
Solutions & Considerations
- Balancing with Evidence-Based: In some cases, a combined approach may be best, integrating both evidence-based practices with the unique strengths of practice-based approaches.
- Continuous Evaluation: Regular evaluation of the effectiveness of practices is necessary, ensuring practices remain relevant and beneficial to the community.
In conclusion, practice-based practice emphasizes treatments and supports that are derived from and supportive of the local cultural practices and traditions. It focuses on what works within specific communities and their environments.
