03 - The population is specifically described
The population (patients, public, etc.) to whom the guideline is meant to apply is specifically described.
User’s Manual Description:
A clear description of the population (i.e., patients, public, etc.) covered by a guideline should be provided. The age range, sex, clinical description, and comorbidity may be provided. For example:
- A guideline on the management of diabetes mellitus only includes patients with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus and excludes patients with cardiovascular comorbidity.
- A guideline on the management of depression only includes patients with major depression according to the DSM-IV criteria, and excludes patients with psychotic symptoms and children.
- A guideline on screening of breast cancer only includes women, aged between 50 and 70 years, with no history of cancer and with no family history of breast cancer.
Where to Look:
Examine the opening paragraphs/chapters for a description of the target population of the guideline. The explicit exclusion of some populations (for instance children) is also covered by this item. Examples of commonly labeled sections or chapters in a guideline where this information can be found include: patient population, target population, relevant patients, scope, and purpose.
How to Rate:
Item content includes the following CRITERIA:
- target population, gender and age
- clinical condition (if relevant)
- severity/stage of disease (if relevant)
- comorbidities (if relevant)
- excluded populations (if relevant)
Additional CONSIDERATIONS:
- Is the item well written? Are the descriptions clear and concise?
- Is the item content easy to find in the guideline?
- Is the population information specific enough so that the correct and eligible individuals would receive the action recommended in the guideline?
Last modified by Gerritjan Koekkoek on 2024/04/17 13:07
Created by Gerritjan Koekkoek on 2024/04/17 13:07
