Evidence, expertise, and patient preference in speech-language pathology

Abstract

A consideration of evidence-based practice has led many to debate the nature of evidence. Rejecting the idea that randomized controlled trials should be the only legitimate source of evidence, writers have argued that other types of research and knowledge should be considered legitimate sources of evidence. This paper suggests that one should draw on systematic research, including qualitative research, for evidence, and that other types of knowledge such as craft and practice knowledge are part of the profession's expertise. This paper argues that evidence and expertise are both required for evidence-based practice to occur. Finally, a consideration of patients' values and expectations is explored as a third component of evidence-based practice. The paper argues that all three components are necessary for evidence-based practice.

Keywords:

• Evidence-based practice
• expertise
• patient preference
• decision-making