A recent Journal of Hospital Medicine article by AHRQ researchers explored how healthcare organizations can use the learning health system framework to translate evidence into practice and measure the impacts on practice. AHRQ's Evidence-based Practice Center (EPC) program synthesizes evidence to inform and improve medical practice. However, many healthcare organizations struggle to put this evidence into practice. AHRQ researchers described their efforts around the three phases of the learning health system cycle—identifying and synthesizing evidence, applying knowledge in care delivery, and assessing performance—around prevention and treatment of Clostridium difficile colitis (C. diff). The learning health system cycle is a valuable framework to improve practice and develop systems that enhance continuous learning, according to the AHRQ authors.

Learn more about the AHRQ EPC Program's work to help health systems use evidence.