Katherine Shepherd Posted April 27, 2022, 8:16 PM

Katherine Shepherdposted Dateapr 27 2022 816 Pmu

Although EBP has been associated with a higher quality of care and improved patient outcomes, organizations continue to face challenges and barriers in implementing and sustaining a culture of EBP (Echevarria et al., 2017). These barriers include lack of knowledge and skills by health care providers, resistance to EBP, time, misunderstanding of EBP, and lack of financial commitment (Echevarria et al., 2017). This writer’s proposed change revolving around the mental health treatment stigma that some veterans have is no exception to the barriers that one may face when implementing EBP change. Financially speaking, there would be no direct increase in cost with the implementation of this project, however, it would take up the time of health care professionals who implement the educational intervention.

The argument could be made that the financial cost will indirectly come from the time of the professionals. A quality aspect of this project includes the potential for an increased quality in patient care by means of connecting those suffering from mental illness with treatment options that may have otherwise been overlooked. EBP changes should include innovation, shared decision making, and quality and safety (Echevarria et al., 2017). The quality of treatment that veterans receive stands to be improved with the implementation of this project. There are also clinical aspects to take into account as well, as health care professionals participating in this change project will need to be acutely aware of mental health signs and symptoms, as well as communication strategies when talking with veterans who may have stigma. This change proposal will have a direct impact on clinical factors, and has the propensity to improve patient care by more aptly recommending mental health treatment to those who need it.

Paper For Above instruction

Implementing evidence-based practice (EBP) in healthcare settings is essential for ensuring high-quality patient care and improved health outcomes. Despite its proven benefits, many organizations encounter significant hurdles in adopting and maintaining a culture geared towards EBP. These challenges encompass a wide spectrum, including insufficient knowledge and skills among healthcare providers, resistance to change, time limitations, misunderstandings of EBP principles, and financial constraints (Echevarria et al., 2017). Addressing these barriers is critical to fostering an environment conducive to continuous improvement and innovation within healthcare systems.

This paper focuses on a specific proposed change: reducing stigma related to mental health treatment among veterans. Veterans often face unique mental health challenges due to their service, yet stigma remains a potent barrier preventing many from seeking necessary care. Implementing an educational intervention aimed at decreasing mental health stigma among veterans can significantly enhance access to mental health services, leading to better health outcomes. Although the project itself does not impose direct costs, it requires the allocation of healthcare professionals' time to conduct educational sessions, which might be viewed as an indirect financial expense.

The value of this initiative lies in its potential to improve clinical outcomes through increased engagement with mental health services. Connecting veterans with appropriate and timely mental health treatment can reduce symptoms, prevent complications, and enhance overall quality of life. Incorporating evidence-based strategies—such as shared decision-making, patient-centered communication, and safety protocols—strengthens the intervention’s effectiveness (Echevarria et al., 2017). Furthermore, the project emphasizes innovation by tailoring educational content to the specific needs of veterans, addressing misconceptions, and fostering a supportive environment for treatment acceptance.

Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in the success of this change. They must be equipped with adequate knowledge of mental health signs and symptoms, particularly those relevant to veterans, who may present with unique clinical features. Training should include communication strategies to navigate stigma effectively, build trust, and encourage veterans to seek treatment. This clinical awareness ultimately contributes to improved patient-provider relationships, facilitating more accurate diagnoses and personalized care plans.

By implementing this change, healthcare organizations can demonstrate a commitment to quality improvement and patient safety. The initiative aligns with core principles of EBP, including innovation and shared decision-making, which are vital for advancing healthcare quality. Additionally, by reducing stigma, organizations can foster a culture of openness and support, encouraging veterans to discuss mental health concerns without fear of judgment or discrimination.

In conclusion, addressing mental health stigma among veterans through educational interventions exemplifies how evidence-based practices can be applied to overcome barriers and enhance clinical outcomes. Although the project may require investments of time and resources, the long-term benefits—improved veteran health outcomes, increased access to mental health services, and a more supportive healthcare environment—are compelling. As healthcare continues to evolve, embracing strategies rooted in evidence-based practice will be essential for delivering effective, patient-centered care.

References

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• Vaughan, B. B., & DiClemente, C. C. (2010). Stigma and mental health services in veteran populations. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 66(10), 980–990.
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