Evidence-based practice in hospice: is qualitative more appropriate than quantitative?

Evidence-based practice has become the accepted phrase relative to healthcare quality and outcomes. Hospice providers have begun to express an interest in applying evidence to practice. Evidence-based practice, with its tiers of evidence, ranks quantitative research methods at the top. However, there is concern that applying evidence-based practice to a subjective concept like pain and suffering may be problematic. A more balanced approach to quality outcomes in hospice care may need to involve patient experience and qualitative research.