This course is not currently offered, please contact the school or faculty of your program.

Course description

Patient-centredness is the contemporary model of healthcare that has significant benefits not only for patient outcomes but can also improve efficiency and decrease costs for health organisations. Evidence based practice is an approach that is paramount towards improving clinical outcomes. The course is presented in two elements. The first examines the principles underpinning patient-centredness and provides strategies and processes to involve the patient and their support network in treatment decision making and self- management. Clinician-patient communication is a key aspect of patient-centredness and this skill set is examined in some depth, including cultural respect in healthcare. The second element looks at a five-step approach to evidence-based practice that includes the development of a searchable question as well as how to identify, retrieve and implement quality evidence. The role and development of clinical practice guidelines is also examined. The skills and knowledge developed through the course will enable health professionals to improve clinical practice by using high quality evidence as a basis for decision making.