04 - Include all relevant professional groups
The guideline development group includes individuals from all relevant professional groups.
User’s Manual Description:
This item refers to the professionals who were involved at some stage of the development process. This may include members of the steering group, the research team involved in selecting and reviewing/rating the evidence and individuals involved in formulating the final recommendations. This item excludes individuals who have externally reviewed the guideline (see Item 13). This item excludes target population representation (see Item 5). Information about the composition, discipline, and relevant expertise of the guideline development group should be provided.
Where to Look:
Examine the opening paragraphs/chapters, acknowledgement section or appendices for the composition of the guideline development group. Examples of commonly labeled sections or chapters in a guideline where this information can be found include: methods, guideline panel member list, acknowledgements, and appendices.
How to Rate:
Item content includes the following CRITERIA:
- For each member of the guideline development group, the following information is included:
- name
- discipline/content expertise (e.g., neurosurgeon, methodologist)
- institution (e.g., St. Peter’s hospital)
- geographical location (e.g., Seattle, WA)
- a description of the member’s role in the guideline development group
Additional CONSIDERATIONS:
- Is the item well written? Are the descriptions clear and concise?
- Is the item content easy to find in the guideline?
- Are the members an appropriate match for the topic and scope? Potential candidates include relevant clinicians, content experts, researchers, policy makers, clinical administrators, and funders.
- Is there at least one methodology expert included in the development group (e.g., systematic review expert, epidemiologist, statistician, library scientist, etc.)?