Development of clinical practice guidelines for patients with comorbidity and multiple diseases

Area of Science:

• Health Systems Research
• Clinical Practice Guidelines
• Patient Management

Background:

• Managing patients with comorbidity and polypathology poses significant challenges for healthcare systems.
• Current clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) often have limitations when applied to this complex patient population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose standardized terminology and a robust methodology for developing CPGs that effectively address comorbidity and polypathology.
• To enhance the applicability and utility of CPGs for patients with multiple health conditions.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify current challenges and best practices.
• Proposals were developed for various stages of CPG preparation, focusing on key areas of improvement.

Main Results:

• Key proposals include incorporating comorbidity clusters into initial guideline questions.
• Recommendations for using indirect evidence and addressing the burden of disease management are suggested.
• Strategies for effective dissemination and implementation of adapted CPGs are outlined.

Conclusions:

• The proposed terminology and methodology offer a framework for creating more valid and useful CPGs for patients with comorbidity and polypathology.
• Further development and stakeholder engagement are necessary to refine these tools for optimal patient care.