Sufficient experience has accumulated to describe the basic features of a typical evidence-based guideline and the associated process of development. Each guideline project is conducted by a task force composed of eight to 10 ASA members. Each task force, in turn, identifies 50 to100 consultants. Task force members and consultants are chosen carefully to provide geographic diversity and balance between academia and private practice. The progress of each task force is monitored closely by an assigned member of the Committee on Practice Parameters.
Monitoring assures that the guidelines are appropriate in scope and purpose.
Evidence for each guideline is obtained from scientific literature, consultant opinion and practitioner experience. Literature searching usually yields 2,000-3,000 citations for each guideline topic. About 25 percent of citations contain data that can be used as scientific evidence. Consultant opinion is obtained from five to 10 formal surveys. Practitioner experience is derived from feasibility studies and an open forum.