Getting the Evidence into Occupational Therapy Practice: A Review of the Process and Progress in Encouraging Evidence Based Practice in New Zealand

Abstract

Evidence based practice (EBP) is now part of the language of contemporary occupational therapy practice. This article aims to reveal the process and progress undertaken by the profession in New Zealand to encourage occupational therapists to value incorporating evidence in everyday practice. It includes an exploration of the philosophy of EBP in New Zealand, and the potential influences on the development of this philosophy. In addition, it provides examples of specific strategies employed at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and general professional initiatives, all aimed at encouraging New Zealand therapists to incorporate evidence as part of everyday practice. Where possible, the success of these initiatives is reviewed, and future directions for continued support and development of EBP in New Zealand are discussed. The views presented are informed by the author’s experiences as a clinician and lecturer, from facilitating workshops and discussions in EBP around New Zealand, and from ongoing conversations with therapists in both practice and supervision contexts. These views are also drawn from conversations with other academics and the literature addressing EBP that has been generated in New Zealand over the last decade.