Evidence-Informed Managerial Decision-Making: what evidence counts? (Part Two)

Objective: The importance of making managerial decisions informed by relevant and up-to-date evidence, has been widely recognised by both researchers and managers. However, previous studies overseas and in Australia have confirmed the lack of use of evidence in decision-making processes by health service managers. The purpose of the paper is to examine the factors that are relevant to the Australian context and to recommend strategies to increase the use of evidence for decision-making among Australian health service managers. Design and Setting: With Fellows and Associate Fellows of the Australasian College of Health Services Management (ACHSM), Victorian Branch as the study population, the project design consisted of two key elements: a questionnaire and two focus group discussions. Main outcome measures: The main outcome measures were factors that can influence the practice of evidence-informed decision-making and strategies to improve practice. Results: One hundred and sixteen participants out of the 411 sample provided enough useful data to be included in the final analysis with an effective response rate of 28.2%. This study confirmed that the lack of time, financial resources and relevance of management research were the three most significant barriers to the practice of evidence-informed decision-making among health service managers in Victoria. On the other hand, the appropriate presentation of research and findings, high quality research evidence and the relevance and applicability of such evidence to the local context, were the most important factors that may encourage practice. Discussion: In order to encourage and improve the practice of evidence-informed decision-making, a number of significant changes are required at various levels. More importantly, the crucial role of professional bodies such as ACHSM in assisting in and lobbying for changes at the research, organisational and manager levels should be recognised and realised. Recommendations on improving the use of evidence in decision-making processes among health service managers are proposed.