National Academies of Practice Position Statement: Importance of Evidence in Interprofessional Healthcare

In support of its mission and core values—collaboration, patient-centeredness, inclusivity, and interconnectedness—the National Academies of Practice (NAP) affirms the essential role of evidence in guiding interprofessional healthcare practice, education, policy, and research.

NAP defines evidence-based practice as “the integration of professional/clinical expertise, patient/client values, and the best research evidence into the decision-making process for patient/client-centered care” based upon “professionally and/or clinically relevant research that has been conducted using sound methodology” (NAP Lexicon 3.0 Taskforce, 2024, p. 9).

Position Statement

NAP asserts that the generation, integration, and application of evidence are foundational to achieving optimal outcomes in interprofessional healthcare. Evidence-based interprofessional practice ensures that patients, families, communities, and populations benefit from coordinated, informed, and respectful care that draws upon the best available science and the diverse expertise of healthcare teams.

Read the full Position Statement including Supporting Principles and References here.