[GRADE: Evidence to Decision (EtD) frameworks - a systematic and transparent approach to making well informed healthcare choices. 2: Clinical guidelines]

Abstract

Clinical guidelines are based on the best available evidence and produced systematically. In this context, the transparent presentation of the decision-making process from evidence to recommendation is indispensable. The Evidence to Decision (EtD) frameworks for clinical practice recommendations enables guideline panels to structure their approach and make it comprehensible. The EtD frameworks include three main sections: formulating the question, assessing the evidence and "Additional considerations" for each criterion, and drawing conclusions. This article focuses on the selection and operationalization of those criteria of the EtD framework that are relevant for clinical recommendations in guidelines. These include the priority of the problem, benefits and harms, certainty of the evidence, importance of the outcome, balance, resource use, equity, acceptability and feasibility. To make a recommendation, a panel must consider the implication and importance of each of the above judgments. The EtD framework helps ensure consideration of key criteria that determine whether an intervention should be recommended and that judgments are informed by the best available evidence.

Keywords: Empfehlungen; Entscheidungsfindung; GRADE; Guidelines; Leitlinien; Summary of Findings; decision-making; recommendations.