Article Text
Abstract
Background The Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care (CTFPHC) was re-established in 2010, with a mandate to produce clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for primary preventive care, based on systematic analysis of scientific evidence.
Context In order to increase the range of topics for which the CTFPHC provides guidance, while operating with defined resources, it was necessary to explore alternative dissemination methods. In addition to developing new guidelines and updating existing guidelines, the CTFPHC has developed a process for identifying high quality guidelines produced by other organisations on topics relevant to the CTFPHC’s mandate.
Description of Best Practice The process is comprised of 12 steps. When a CPG is identified for appraisal, a literature scan for recently produced guidelines on the same topic by other organisations is conducted. The resultant CPGs are qualitatively assessed based on 5 criteria. The CPG most appropriate for appraisal undergoes AGREEII assessment, followed by development of a summary report that includes a commentary which discusses the strengths, limitations, link between evidence review and CPG and content of the CPG.
Lessons for Guideline Developers, Adaptors, Implementers and/or Users Through several iterations, a robust process has been developed, with 3 appraisals completed. Two essential steps were identified: systematic selection of guidelines for appraisal, and engagement of KT experts in selecting product format. Because an appraisal identifies CPGs developed using a standard and rigorous methodology, and does not imply the CTFPHC’s agreement with the recommendations, it is essential that the summary report contain information required by practitioners to ensure a benefit is gained from its dissemination.