Conducting systematic reviews to inform occupational therapy practice

Am J Occup Ther. 2009 May-Jun;63(3):363-8. doi: 10.5014/ajot.63.3.363.

Abstract

Systematic reviews (SRs) are increasingly used in the health professions to evaluate research evidence to guide practice and justify reimbursement for services. Despite the importance of SRs in the health professions, there is no definitive guide for how to conduct a useful, high-quality review. In this article we will (1) provide an overview of the process of writing a traditional SR with particular emphasis on design and conduct, (2) discuss limitations of the traditional SR in occupational therapy, and (3) describe how information is synthesized and used for clinical practice.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Evidence-Based Practice
  • Health Services Research
  • Humans
  • Occupational Therapy* / standards
  • Publications / standards
  • Review Literature as Topic*