Reconceptualizing qualitative evidence.

Abstract

As qualitative researchers, we have not explored our own work from the qualitative evidence perspective. The author suggests that qualitative researchers need to explore the conflicting agendas of evidence-based medicine and qualitative inquiry, compare the anatomy of qualitative data and evidenced-based data, and explore the autonomy of qualitative inquiry within the context of evidenced-based medicine. By attending to and communicating the differences in qualitative and quantitative evidence, and by accepting the differences in our research agendas, qualitative researchers will achieve the legitimacy that they deserve and which they require.