Final answer:
Evidence-based practice is the approach that calls for healthcare and clinical decision-making to be based on the best available research, which often involves systematic observation and empirical evidence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pillar of the profession that requires practice to be based on the best available research is known as evidence-based practice. This approach integrates clinical expertise with the best available external clinical evidence from systematic research to make decisions about the care of individual patients. The scientific method plays a crucial role in evidence-based practice as it is a standardized protocol for conducting research. Scientist and practitioners alike employ scientific methods which include systematic observation, measurement, experiment, and the formulation, testing, and modification of hypotheses. Through this process, empirical evidence is utilized, meaning the evidence comes from direct experience or scientifically gathered data. The end goal is to provide the most effective and efficient treatment to patients by continuously integrating new research findings into clinical practice.