Common Barriers to EBP and How to Solve Them?

A 2025 study shows that over 40% of healthcare workers struggle to use Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) due to a lack of training and costly journal access. EBP means using the best research, along with real-world experience, to give better care. It leads to safer decisions, faster recovery, and improved patient outcomes. Still, overcoming barriers to implementing evidence based practice is key to making it a regular part of care and helping both professionals and patients see real results.

Even with these benefits, many still face barriers to implementing evidence based practice in daily care. In this blog, we’ll look at the most common challenges and how to solve them.

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Common Barriers to EBP and How to Solve Them

Many healthcare professionals value evidence-based practice, but real-world use is challenging. Time, resources, and training are key obstacles that hinder evidence based practice.

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Lack of Time

Busy schedules often leave little room to review research or apply new findings. Long shifts and daily demands make it hard to focus on anything beyond patient care.

Solution: Break learning into smaller parts using microlearning tools. Use short videos, quick guides, or mobile apps during breaks. Adding short EBP chats into team huddles can also make it easier to learn without needing extra time.

Limited Access to Resources

Not every workplace has access to paid journals, research databases, or updated clinical guidelines. Without these, it’s hard to stay current.

Solution: Ask your facility to invest in shared subscriptions or explore open-access journals. Team up with local libraries or universities to get access to research without extra cost.

What are the Benefits of Evidence-Based Practice in Education?

Insufficient Training in EBP Skills

Many workers don’t feel confident reading research or applying it to patient care. They may not know how to judge if a study is strong or how it fits their practice. overcoming barriers to implementing evidence based practice starts with building these skills through hands-on training and support.

Solution: Offer training that’s simple and hands-on. Mentorships and in-service workshops can help team members build skills over time. Make learning practical by using real patient cases.

Resistance to Change

Some people feel more comfortable sticking to what they know. They may worry that Evidence based practice takes more effort or won’t work in their setting.

Solution: Share real stories of how EBP made a difference. Let team leaders show how it works in everyday care. 

Organizational Barriers

Without support from leadership, it’s hard to keep EBP going. Lack of clear policies or direction can stop progress before it starts.

Solution: Appoint EBP champions who lead by example. Align EBP goals with your workplace mission. Build a team culture that values learning and constant improvement.

Conclusion 

Overcoming challenges in implementing evidence based practice is key to improving patient care and growing as a healthcare professional. Even small actions like asking for help, using free research tools, or joining a training session can make a big difference. 

Taking these steps not only builds confidence but also leads to better decisions and outcomes. By staying open to learning and using what works best, professionals can bring real change to everyday care. The more EBP is used, the better the results for everyone.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is evidence-based practice important in healthcare?

Evidence-Based Practice helps healthcare professionals make better decisions by combining current research, clinical skills, and patient needs. This approach leads to safer care, fewer errors, and better health outcomes over time.

What can I do if my workplace doesn’t support evidence-based practice?

Start by using free online research tools and open-access journals. You can also connect with peers who value EBP and share small wins.