The Panel Subgroup (PSG) Method: A Valuable Method for Effectively Engaging Panels in the Development of Practice...

Clinical practice guidelines rely on expert panels to review evidence and develop recommendations. The traditional approach of engaging experts often relies on periodic full panel meetings which can lead to slow progress and variability in panel engagement. To address these issues, the ASCO introduced the Panel Subgroup (PSG) method, dividing panels into smaller working groups to enhance engagement, distribute workload, and accelerate guideline development.

To evaluate the PSG method on guideline development timelines, its uptake, perceived benefits, challenges, and lessons learned from the perspective of ASCO guideline methodologists.

This study had two phases. Phase 1 was a retrospective review of ASCO guideline administrative data (2017-2024) comparing guidelines developed using the traditional or PSG method. Guidelines were included if they were de novo, had over 50 included studies, and complete administrative records. Data extracted included number of panelists, research questions, studies reviewed, subgroups (for PSG), and development time. Phase 2 involved qualitative interviews with methodologists who used the PSG method to explore experiences, benefits, and challenges.

Sixteen guidelines met the inclusion criteria: seven used the traditional method and nine used the PSG method. The average development time was 13 months (SD, 2.41) for the PSG method compared to traditional (23 months; SD, 6.30). PSG uptake among methodologists was 75% (6/8). Reported benefits included improved expert engagement, deeper evidence analysis, better collaboration, and shared authorship. Challenges included greater time demands, increased coordination, writing inconsistencies, and the need for full panel buy-in.

The PSG method offers a promising structure to improve engagement and streamline productivity. While not without challenges, it may be particularly useful for large panels and complex guidelines when applied thoughtfully.