Unravelling Education Needs for Clinical Practice Guideline Development: A Survey Performed in the Netherlands

The development of clinical practice guidelines (CPG) has evolved into a rigorous and complex process. There is a need for training of CPG developers including methodologists, panel members and patient representatives. This study explored the educational needs and experiences of CPG developers, with specific attention to the patient perspective and economic considerations.

An anonymised mixed-method survey was distributed among CPG developers and panel members in the Netherlands. The survey, developed in collaboration with Dutch CPG development organisations and patient organisations, aimed to capture insights into the developers' roles, training needs, and the incorporation of economic considerations and patient perspectives in CPG development. Data analysis involved qualitative content analysis and descriptive quantitative analysis.

A total of 271 responses were analysed. Respondents described role-specific tasks and tasks overlapping between roles. Experience, guidance, and training influenced the respondents' feeling of preparedness for their tasks. Respondents expressed the need for content-related training, including CPG development methodology. They also raised the importance of process-related topics in training, such as the inclusion of different perspectives and responsibilities during CPG development. About half of the respondents (46%) indicated that economic considerations were included in their CPGs, however, there was no uniformity in approach. The patient perspective was included by 89% of the respondents, also in varying manners. Overall, respondents underscored the importance of both topics in CPG development (training) to ensure a future-proof healthcare system.

This study underscores the importance of tailored CPG development training programmes addressing the specific competencies required for the different roles in CPG development. Thereby, recognising a holistic approach encompassing both content- and process-related aspects. Addressing economic considerations and the patient perspective in training will contribute to CPGs that support a patient-centred and sustainable healthcare system.