Aims and structure of the guideline development manual

This guidelines framework document replaces the previous guidance for BHIVA guideline development first agreed in 2007 and last updated in 2020.

The main aims of this framework document are:

• To combine the range of improvements introduced into the guideline development process in recent years into a single document

• To develop a reference tool for current and future co-authors of guidelines

• To summarise the guideline process for all users of the guidance but especially for members of BHIVA, stakeholders, patients and sister agencies

Based on the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) Instrument, the subsequent sections of this policy document demonstrate that BHIVA guidelines are:

• Produced to promote clinical care for those living with HIV and reduce the associated morbidity and mortality

• Produced by HIV specialists and other healthcare professionals caring for patients with HIV for the benefit of peer healthcare professionals, patients and the public

• Produced using a transparent, consistent and reliable development process

• Designed to provide recommendations based and graded on the best available evidence

• Designed to provide recommendations – strong or weak – weighing up the cost, burden and benefits of treatment or intervention

• Designed to provide audit measures for the guideline recommendations

• Recognised by the US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), European AIDS Clinical Society (EACS) and other international HIV guideline development groups

Review and update of the guideline development manual

It is planned that this manual will be updated every 3 years by the BHIVA Guidelines Subcommittee subject to ratification by the Executive Committee.

Downloads

British HIV Association (BHIVA) Guideline Development Manual