What is an Evidence-Based Program?

Evidence-based programs (EBPs) are programs that have been rigorously tested in controlled settings, proven effective, and translated into practical models that are available to community-based organizations. Their evaluation has been subjected to critical peer review: Experts in the field have examined the evaluation’s methods and agreed with its conclusions about the program’s effects. When you implement an evidence-based program, you can be confident you’re delivering a program that works to improve the health of your constituents.

Advantages Of Evidence-Based Programs

Implementing an EBP is often considered a “best practice” strategy for community health promotion. EBPs can add value in many ways.

• EBPs positively impact the health of program participants.

• Funders increasingly demand that programming be based on solid evidence.

• Agency leaders want to concentrate limited resources on proven programs.

• Program managers can concentrate their efforts on program delivery rather than program development, allowing them to reach a larger population and have a greater impact. 

• Participants want to invest their time, effort and money in programs that have been proven to work. 

• The demonstrated outcomes of EBPs are attractive to potential partners, facilitating referrals from health care partners.