CARE-NET: CAREGIVER ADVOCACY

Preliminary Survey Results Show Need for EBP Training

Data from the survey is still coming in, but preliminary results show key providers in Georgia are familiar, but not knowledgeable about EBP. While a large majority – 84% - felt that there was value in adding EBP to the programs and services currently offered to their clients and caregivers, only half actually do offer evidence-based programs through their agency.

According to the results of the survey, funding is the most prevalent barrier to offering EBP cited by respondents. The data shows that 81.6 % rated funding in general as their number one barrier to employing EBP; and 47.6% felt that funding priorities were a barrier. Other barriers that received high ratings were: lack of knowledge about EBP; lack of staff willingness to employ; lack of staff skills to employ; and lack of priority by governing board.

The RCI was excited to learn that there was a widespread interest and need for training cited by the survey respondents. Over 83% of the respondents report that they would be interested in receiving training about EBP for caregivers, and nearly half (49.7%) indicated that they would be interested in serving as a trainer of EBP.

The RCI has already responded to these needs in a big way – hosting two immensely successful EBP training sessions in Georgia, Powerful Tools for Caregivers and Care Transitions. The RCI is currently developing a training program for Savvy Caregiver, which will be offered in the fall or winter. Exact dates and locations will be announced through this newsletter and on the RCI web site: www.rosalynncarter.org.