Protocol-developing meta-ethnography reporting guidelines (eMERGe)

Area of Science:

• Qualitative research synthesis
• Health services research
• Evidence-based practice

Background:

• High-quality health services require synthesized evidence.
• Meta-ethnography synthesizes qualitative research on patient experiences and health issues.
• Current meta-ethnography reporting is often of poor quality, hindering its use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an evidence-based reporting guideline for meta-ethnography.
• To articulate methodological standards for improved reporting quality.
• To enhance the trustworthiness and utility of meta-ethnography findings.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods study following guideline development best practices.
• Methodological systematic review of meta-ethnography conduct and reporting recommendations.
• Audit of published meta-ethnographies to identify good practice.
• Online workshops and Delphi studies with experts and stakeholders.
• Development and dissemination of a reporting guideline and supporting materials.

Main Results:

• Identified a need for standardized reporting in meta-ethnography.
• Established a comprehensive set of recommendations for conducting and reporting meta-ethnography.
• Developed a guideline through consensus with international experts and patients.
• Created accompanying resources to facilitate guideline adoption and use.

Conclusions:

• Meta-ethnography is a valuable synthesis method increasingly used in health disciplines.
• Methodological advancements and discipline-specific adaptations require further investigation.
• A robust meta-ethnography reporting guideline is essential to improve evidence quality.
• The guideline aims to enhance the contribution of meta-ethnography to healthcare and patient outcomes.