From the Oracle of Delphi to Intensive Care Unit Guidelines: Consensus Building Using the Delphi Method

Delphi methodology is increasingly employed in health care, particularly in areas where evidence is limited, ambiguous, or conflicting. Consensus-based approaches are integral to guideline development; however, the processes underpinning consensus are often inadequately described or lack transparency, particularly in relation to mitigating cognitive biases within expert panels. The epistemological principles of the Delphi method-anonymous voting, iteration, and controlled feedback-are designed to minimize group convergence and peer pressure commonly observed in face-to-face discussions. While efforts have been made to improve reporting standards for Delphi studies, there remains a lack of comprehensive guidance and uniform standards for their design and conduct. This viewpoint examines the limitations of consensus methods used in guideline development and highlights how the Delphi methodology can enhance transparency, methodological rigor, and robustness in this process.

Schultz MJ, Nasa P. From the Oracle of Delphi to Intensive Care Unit Guidelines: Consensus Building Using the Delphi Method. Indian J Crit Care Med 2026;30(8):623-627.