Conflict of interest management.
Although it is important to acknowledge conflicts of interest, professionalism must take precedence.
Recognize the importance of diversity
. Evidence selection, voting panel members, and diverse committees must acknowledge diverse populations.
Look beyond just methodologies
. The quality of guidelines should be based above all on safety and patient outcomes. Methodology is important and fundamental, but it is not the only criterion for determining quality.
Be transparent.
Ensure full transparency in publicly funded science with research conducted without NDAs. Audit panel members' satisfaction with the process.
Recognize budget constraints
. Costs and other resource constraints are openly acknowledged and factored into calculations. Don't manipulate the science to facilitate budget considerations.
We respect professionalism.
Stop task force guidance that experts deem inappropriate. Replace, at least temporarily, with expert-recommended guidelines such as those from the US Task Force, National Comprehensive Cancer Network, and Canadian and/or American professional societies. Content experts should chair guidelines in their field, with methodologists playing an important supporting role, and professional associations approve guidelines to avoid confusing and conflicting guidelines.