Processes for Developing Plain Language Versions of Guidelines Recommendations: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Health Communication
• Evidence Synthesis
• Guideline Development

Background:

• Plain language recommendations (PLRs) are essential for making complex health guidelines accessible.
• Clear and understandable health information is crucial for patient engagement and informed decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize methodological evidence for developing plain language recommendations (PLRs) within the healthcare context.
• To identify best practices and resources for creating understandable health guidelines.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review methodology following JBI standards and PRISMA-ScR guidelines was employed.
• Systematic searches were conducted in major databases (MEDLINE, Embase) and guideline developer repositories.
• Data were extracted independently and synthesized narratively.

Main Results:

• Nine articles and eight documents from guideline developers were included, detailing PLR development and methodologies.
• Infographics and patient involvement are common in PLR creation for diverse target groups (patients, public, policymakers, providers).
• Resources like GIN Public Toolkit, RIGHT-PVG, and DISCERN can support PLR development.

Conclusions:

• Policy support is recommended for the development and implementation of healthcare PLRs.
• Reporting on communication strategies and verifying the understandability and actionability of PLRs is crucial.