why scientific research is more important than ever
Evidence based research helps us to establish and follow standardized care guidelines thus reducing discrepancies in treatment among healthcare providers. Incorporating the latest research findings and practice experience, these guidelines help to ensure that people receive the most effective possible care which is tailored to their specific needs. The acceptance or rejection of a scientific idea depends upon the evidence relevant to it. Not upon dogma, popular opinion, tradition or what worked for your cousin or BFF. Or any social media influencer, Beyonce and so on. In science, ideas that are not supported by the evidence are, in the end, rejected. In healthcare, our evidence based practice (EBF) zeroes in on using current evidence derived from clinical research studies and analysis in combination with a practitioner's own professional experience and judgment. It's a three-part approach otherwise known as the three-legged stool of EBP that any professional healthcare team member learned in their academic studies. The three legs are clinical research, clinical experience and the patient's preferences.
Barriers to evidence-based practice abound and include poor coaching, lack of education, lack of time and uncertainty. More broadly, the biological and societal factors that shape women's (please understand that for the sake of brevity, I am referring to any individual born with XX chromosomes) health have long failed to receive adequate attention from researchers, clinicians and educators. One major societal hurdle, of course, has been financial investment. In February 2024, Dr. Jill Biden spearheaded the Women's Health Research Initiative. This is a one million dollar investment that will make a significant impact if the Initiative can survive our current political climate.
The time for an evolved perspective has arrived. For centuries, women's health has been neglected across science, medicine and technology. A contemporary report from the World Economic Forum suggests tackling this could unlock a $1 trillion economic boost with the potential to change the lives of 3.9 billion women. Global health and societies at large will improve as we do better in women's health.