gms | German Medical Science

Background: This organisation has been at the forefront of the production of UK Guidelines for best clinical practice in respiratory medicine for over 20 years. Recognising that the methodology for the production of evidence-based Guidelines has evolved in recent years, the Society has made significant investment in the development of its Guideline Production process.

Context: An application for NHS Evidence Accreditation http://www.evidence.nhs.uk/accreditation/ was made in 2009 soon after the scheme was launched. The Society was disappointed in the decision not to accredit the Guideline production process, but made every effort to ensure that the criteria for accreditation would be met when eligible to re-apply for accreditation.

Description of Best practice: To prepare for the re-application for NHS Evidence Accreditation, the following issues were addressed:

• Development of a detailed Guideline manual with annual review;
• Introduction of a training programme for Guideline group members;
• Adherence to recognised methodology for formulation of clinical questions, assessment of the evidence and grading of recommendations;
• Ensuring that guideline groups are multidisciplinary with patient representation;
• Introduction of a peer review and public consultation process;
• Production of associated materials to support the dissemination and implementation of guideline recommendations including audit and educational resources.

Lessons for guideline developers: The Guideline Production process received confirmation of NHS Evidence accreditation in December 2011. The development of the materials and processes to meet the accreditation criteria provide lessons for other professional organisations involved in clinical Guideline production.