Systematic reviews of studies of prognosis: activation of a Prognosis Review Network

Article type
Authors
Williams K, Altman D, Klassen T, Ridley G, Woolfenden S, Hayden J, Dennis J
Abstract
Objectives: The purpose of the workshop is to further discuss the key issues for undertaking systematic reviews in prognosis with existing members of the Prognosis Review Network and other interested participants. We will also seek out opinions regarding the further development of the Prognosis Network, its goals and proposals for future action.

Description: Prognosis is an integral part of evidence-based decision making when determining best practice and policy. To aid this process, systematic reviews of studies of prognosis are being undertaken, as identified through a discussion workshop held at the previous Cochrane Colloquium in Ottawa (2004). Essential to this process is the development of guidelines for systematic reviews of prognosis. Following a high level of interest at last year's workshop, a Prognosis Review Network has been activated. The Network is aware of systematic reviews about the prognosis of a wide-range of topics that are currently underway internationally. Participants and convenors will present their experiences in regard to protocol development, literature searching, screening, quality assessment and analysis in relation to undertaking systematic reviews of prognosis. Further discussion about establishing agreed methods for undertaking prognosis systematic reviews will occur.
To date, members of the network have provided information on their topic area of interest in prognosis and related methodological research they are undertaking. This information will provide a background resource upon which goals for the network can be established and proposals for further action developed.

The potential outcomes of the workshop are:
1. Establish goals of the Network
2. Identify proposals of action in regard to key issues for undertaking systematic reviews in prognosis
3. Determine best approach for international collaboration in order to achieve objectives
4. Develop a process for reviewing protocols of systematic reviews within the network
5. Establish a methodological database relevant to systematic reviews of studies of prognosis and reporting primary studies
6. Expand the membership of the Network

Target audience: Anyone with interest or experience.

Style: Discussion workshop