Bringing research closer to care

The Bruyère Research Institute aims to bring research and evidence closer to care at Bruyère. This is essential to improve the health of aging and frail Canadians. In early 2015, the Bruyère Best Evidence Review Group (BERG) was launched. It uses a rapid review process to produce research evidence to help answer important patient care questions at Bruyère.

This unique, evidence-based tool drives the development and dissemination of best evidence. Since its inception, the BERG completed nine rapid reviews related to topics such as dementia, chronic conditions and falls.

“The BERG process of involving local clinical champions and engaging with patients and families builds capacity,” explains Vivian Welch, investigator at Bruyère Research Institute and director of its Methods Centre. “Not only is the science improved, but patient care benefits also.”

The Bruyère Research Institute publishes the results of the rapid reviews on their website through the Bruyère Reports. It includes other studies and information that have the potential for improving health outcomes for different patient populations. These include patients with chronic complex conditions, those who need geriatric or stroke rehabilitation and residents of long-term care homes.

Michelle Crick, a PhD student jointly funded through the Bruyère Research Institute and the University of Ottawa’s Telfer School of Management, was hired to assess the impact of the BERG on patient care. “Providing evidence for how care can be improved is important, but what is done with that evidence and the recommendations are pivotal,” explains Michelle.