evidensgrundlaget

Evidensgrundlaget (the evidence base) is the body of evidence that underpins decision making in a domain such as healthcare, social services, or public policy. It combines research findings, data, and practical experience to inform what interventions, policies, or guidelines are recommended.

Key components include empirical research (quantitative and qualitative), systematic reviews and meta-analyses, economic evaluations, safety and feasibility data, and, when high-quality research is limited, expert consensus and stakeholder input.

Assessment and synthesis: The evidensgrundlaget is appraised for quality, reliability, and applicability. Methods such as risk-of-bias assessment, evidence hierarchies, and frameworks like GRADE are used to judge strength of evidence and to translate it into practical recommendations.

Role and application: In health and social care, it guides guidelines, policy development, and practice standards. It also supports transparency and accountability by documenting the evidence and rationale behind decisions.

Challenges: Evidence gaps, heterogeneity across populations, publication bias, and evolving science can complicate conclusions. The evidensgrundlaget must be updated regularly and decisions should reflect uncertainties and context.

See also: evidence-based practice, systematic review, guideline development.