Use the GUIDES checklists before implementation

Right Decision Service implementation guide
National

Issues related to DSS content

Domain 2 of the GUIDES checklist [Van de Velde 2018a] provides a useful summary of the issues related to the DSS content.

 

Adapted from GUIDES checklist Domain 2: The DSS content

2.1 The content provides trustworthy evidence-based information

  • Do the organisation(s) and people that developed the decision support have credibility?
  • Is the advice supported by up-to-date scientific evidence and is the type and quality of this evidence clear to the user?
  • Is the decision support clear on the benefits and harms of the different management options?

 

2.2 The decision support is relevant and accurate

  • Does the decision support contain accurate information that is pertinent to the care of the patient?
  • Does the decision support address the information needs of the users?
  • Is it clear to the users why the decision support information is provided for a given patient?

 

2.3 The decision support provides appropriate calls to action

  • Is each recommended action clear enough for the targeted users to act on?
  • Is the clinical importance and urgency of the recommended action sufficiently clear?
  • Is the advice applicable in the setting in which it will be implemented?
  • Is it clear how the recommended action fits with other current guidelines?

 

2.4 The amount of decision support is manageable for the target user

  • Is the total amount of decision support manageable for the healthcare provider?
  • Is the amount of decision support per patient manageable?

 

Issues related to DSS performance

Domain 3 of the GUIDES checklist provides a useful summary of the issues related to DSS performance that need to be evaluated before implementation.

 

Adapted from GUIDES checklist Domain 3: The DSS system

3.1 The system is easy to use

  • Is it easy for users to interact with the DSS tool?
  • Does the system facilitate (or, at least, not hinder) the workflow of the healthcare providers?
  • Can the system be customised to provide better user support?
  • Is the system always up and running?

 

3.2 The decision support is well delivered

  • Is the advice delivered in an appropriate mode, format and channel?
  • Is the display of the decision support eye-catching, intuitive, concise, consistent, and unambiguous?
  • Is it appropriate to use specific functions (e.g. pop-ups, computerised restrictions, indications of (dis)agreement) for prioritised decision support?

 

3.3 The system delivers the decision support to the right target person

  • Is the system reaching the targeted users (healthcare providers and/or patients)?
  • Is the system able to facilitate team processes when these are needed?

 

3.4 The decision support is available at the right time

  • Does the system provide the decision support at a moment of need?