Abstract

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, yet its implementation remained inconsistent globally. This systematic review synthesized evidence on barriers and facilitators to EBP adoption among healthcare providers to inform strategies for bridging the evidence-practice gap. This systematic review analyzed the written facilitators and evidence of practice barriers and disparities internationally. The information provided by the literature review identified and reviewed the facilitators and barriers of cross-sectional surveys and mixed-method research in high and low-income countries. The data was thematically analyzed to focus on organizational and contextual factors. Identified barriers to EBP were found to be organizational, such as weak leadership and a lack of resources. Others were at the level of the practitioner, for instance lack of knowledge or resistance to behavioral change. Contextual barriers, such as a lack of time or access to necessary evidence, were also noted. Some of the enablers for EBP were found to have strong EBP policy implementation, leadership, and mentorship, as well as inter-disciplinary collaboration. Geographic differences showed that the lower and middle-income countries (LMICs) were the ones that suffered from having the most pronounced lack of resources, while the high-income countries (HICs) reported a lack of leadership and a lack of resourceful culture. Autonomy barriers were commonly reported in the nursing and allied health workforce, while the physicians mostly raised the concerns of a knowledge gap and lack of time. In the case of EBP implementation, organizational backing, custom-made education, and contextual modification are all essential multi-faceted strategies.

Key words: Evidence-based practice, healthcare providers, barriers, facilitators, health care practitioners, systematic review.