The role of scoping reviews in guideline development
Danielle Pollock, Hanan Khalil, Catrin Evans, Christina Godfrey, Dawid Pieper, Lyndsay Alexander, Andrea C. Tricco, Patricia McInerney, Micah D.J. Peters, Miloslav Klugar, Maicon Falavigna, Aírton Tetelbom Stein, Amir Qaseem, Érica Brandão de Moraes, Ashrita Saran, Sandrine Ding, Timothy Hugh Barker, Iván D. Flórez, Romy Menghao Jia, Zachary Munn
Abstract
Objectives Systematic reviews have long been seen as critical in the development of trustworthy guidelines. However, as newer synthesis methodologies such as scoping reviews become more common, there is a need to discuss the potential role of these methodologies within guideline development. This article aims to summarize and provide examples of the role of scoping reviews in guideline development. Study design and setting Drawing on the expertise of the JBI scoping review group and guideline developers, this discussion article summarizes five key roles of scoping reviews in guideline development. Results Guideline developers can consider using scoping reviews when they need to: 1) know what existing guidelines could be adopted, adapted or adoloped; 2) understand the breadth of evidence that exists on a particular issue and help with the development and prioritization of questions, or identify previous systematic reviews; 3) identify contextual factors and information relevant for a clinical practice recommendation; 4) identify potential strategies for implementation and monitoring and; 5) conduct evidence surveillance and living mapping approaches. Conclusions Scoping reviews conducted and reported according to best-practice guidelines and standards can be used in conjunction with systematic reviews to support the work of guideline developers usefully.