Evaluating the Adoption of Evidence-Based Management Practices in Eye Hospitals

TL;DR

This study evaluates how eye hospitals use evidence-based management practices and finds that data accessibility and expertise are key to better decision-making.

Contribution

The study provides insights into the adoption of evidence-based management in eye hospitals and identifies factors that support effective implementation.

Findings

Data accessibility and interpretation capacity strongly correlate with evidence-based decision-making (r = 0.69, p < 0.01).

Internal expertise and stakeholder engagement moderately associate with EBM practices (r = 0.48, p < 0.01).

Regional variations in EBM adoption suggest a need for educational and peer-learning initiatives.

Abstract

Background: Delivering sustainable, high-quality eye care requires a comprehensive understanding of patient conditions, clinical evidence, patients’ preferences, demand patterns, quality supplies, outcomes, financial sustainability, and satisfaction metrics. Evidence-based management (EBM) offers a structured approach to align actions with evidence, enabling effective decision-making and better organizational outcomes. Evaluating current practices against EBM principles fosters awareness and promotes an EBM culture in eye hospitals, supporting improved and sustainable service delivery. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2023–2024 among 94 eye hospitals worldwide, selected from two networks, using the Centre for Evidence-Based Management (CEBM) assessment questionnaire. Follow-up reminders resulted in 43 responses. Data analysis utilized frequency distributions and Pearson’s correlation to explore relationships between variables. Results: A strong positive correlation was observed between data accessibility and the capacity to interpret data in fostering evidence-based decision-making (r = 0.69, p < 0.01). Additionally, leveraging internal expertise and engaging stakeholders in assessing and utilizing data showed a moderate association with EBM practices (r = 0.48, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Eye hospitals demonstrate alignment with EBM principles, though regional variations exist. Organizations with robust data utilization systems, analytical expertise, and a commitment to continuous improvement are more effective in practicing EBM. Educational and peer-learning initiatives can further support hospitals in adopting EBM principles, strengthening their capacity for evidence-based decision-making, and enhancing eye care services.

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