Assessing the Competence of Evidence-Informed Decision-Making Amongst Health Service Managers

Abstract

Objective: Evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) amongst health service managers has been positively linked to better decision outcome, hence more effective healthcare provision. Efforts to improve EIDM practice are required to meet the current challenging healthcare environment. One key step to improve such practices is skill enhancement. The purpose of the study is the measure the competence of mid-level managers in two Victorian hospitals in applying EIDM in their roles.

Design: The competence of 25 mid-level managers in applying EIDM in their roles was assessed via a 360° process using an online management competency assessment tool (MCAP Tool) and case-study objective assessment tool.

Setting: Mid-level managers working in Victorian hospitals were selected.

Main outcome measures: The competence of mid-level managers in applying the competency of EIDM was assessed. This paper discusses the areas of improvement identified in enhancing the competence of EIDM amongst mid-level managers in the group, organisational and individual levels Results: EIDM is an important competency for health service managers. Managers who participated in the assessment are competent in applying EIDM in their roles, but require guidance and improvements. Strengths and weaknesses of managers in applying EIDM in their roles varied between organisations.

Conclusion: This paper suggests that not only improvement of specific aspects of evidenceinformed decision-making amongst health service managers are required, additional more systematic changes at the organisational and individual management level are essential to achieve competent evidence-informed decision-making practices amongst health service managers.

Abbreviations: CCA – Combined Colleagues; CEO – Chief Executive Officer; EIDM – Evidence Informed Decision Making; OA – Objective Assessment; SA – Self Assessment.