A Framework for Evidence Synthesis Programs to Respond to a Pandemic.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Systems Management
• Evidence Synthesis

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for rapid evidence synthesis to inform urgent health decisions.
• Traditional systematic reviews are too slow for pandemic response, typically taking 6-8 months.
• Healthcare systems require agile methods to manage evolving scientific information.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a practical framework for evidence synthesis programs to rapidly respond to pandemics.
• To detail a system implemented in a large health system during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To provide a replicable model for future pandemic preparedness.

Main Methods:

• Developed a framework with four key components: rapid review methodology, a review repository, a study registry, and prioritized evidence updates.
• Implemented and tested the framework within a large multistate health system.
• Conducted twice-weekly prioritized updates of new evidence for stakeholders.

Main Results:

• The framework proved feasible and practical for rapid evidence synthesis during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Enabled timely delivery of synthesized evidence to decision-makers in a large health system.
• Established a comprehensive system for managing and disseminating COVID-19 research.

Conclusions:

• The presented framework enhances the capacity of evidence synthesis programs to support decision-making during pandemics.
• Replication of this model can improve institutional preparedness for future public health emergencies.
• Agile evidence synthesis is crucial for navigating rapidly evolving health crises.