Development of a STandard reporting guideline for Evidence briefs for Policy: a STEP tool

Article type
Authors
Yu X1, Chen Y2
1Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
2Research Unit of Evidence-Based Evaluation and Guidelines, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2021RU017), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China; Key Laboratory of Evidence Based Medicine of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, Gansu, China; WHO Collaborating Centre for Guideline Implementation and Knowledge Translation, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Abstract
Background: Evidence briefs for policy (EBP) leverage the best available evidence to clarify policy issues, f frame options for addressing them, and outline implementation considerations for policymakers in a given context. Clear reporting of EBPs not only facilitates the swift identification of options but also enhances transparency and quality.
Objective: This study aims to develop a tool for the standard reporting guideline for evidence briefs for policy.
Methods: We referred to and adapted the methods recommended by the EQUATOR network. A systematic survey of reporting characteristics of policy briefs from the United Nations system was conducted to create an initial item pool. Consensus on the items was reached through a modified Delphi method, resulting in the formation of the STEP (Standardized Reporting Guideline for Evidence briefs for Policy) items.
Results: An analysis of reporting characteristics of 86 policy briefs released by the UN system from 2017 to 2021, covering 16 Sustainable Development Goals, yielded an initial item pool of 39 items across 8 areas. These areas include Basic Information, Background, Method, Issues, Policy options, Implementation considerations, Policy recommendations, and Others. The next step involves reaching a consensus on these items through an expert Delphi survey to finalize the STEP items. Specific results will be presented during the conference.