ACCORD Reporting Guideline Checklist for Consensus Methods in Biomedical Research

Consensus methods, such as the Delphi process and the nominal group technique, are essential in biomedical research, particularly when evidence is emerging, inconsistent, limited, or absent. While ACCORD is primarily aimed at health-related research, its principles can also be beneficial in related fields, such as social and educational sciences, although it is not intended for use in areas outside health like economics or marketing. It enables researchers to harness the expertise of diverse stakeholders to inform clinical decisions and policymaking. However, poor reporting of consensus methods can undermine confidence in the research and hinder reproducibility.

The ACcurate COnsensus Reporting Document (ACCORD) guidelines address this need by providing a structured approach to reporting consensus methods in biomedical research. Developed through a systematic review and a modified Delphi process, ACCORD consists of a 35-item checklist designed to ensure transparent and comprehensive reporting.

Validation Process of ACCORD

1. Systematic Review: The initial phase involved a systematic review to assess the quality of reporting in consensus methodology. This review identified deficiencies in current practices and helped generate a preliminary checklist of items that should be reported.
2. Delphi Method: The validation of the checklist was conducted using a modified Delphi process. This involved multiple rounds of anonymous surveys with experts who evaluated the relevance and clarity of each checklist item. A consensus threshold of 80% agreement among panelists was established for inclusion in the final checklist.
3. Iterative Feedback: After each round, panelists received feedback on voting results and were allowed to suggest new items or modifications to existing ones. This iterative process ensured that the final checklist reflected a broad consensus among experts in the field.
4. Finalization: Items achieving consensus were included in the ACCORD checklist, while those that did not meet the criteria were revised or excluded based on qualitative feedback from participants

By following these guidelines, researchers can enhance the clarity and credibility of their consensus-based studies, increasing trust in the recommendations made by consensus panels.

Key Benefits of Using ACCORD Guidelines

• Improved Transparency: Enhance the clarity and comprehensiveness of your consensus-based research reports.
• Enhanced Credibility: Increase the reliability and trustworthiness of your findings.
• Better Decision-Making: Support informed clinical and policy decisions by providing clear insights into the consensus process.

Get Started with ACCORD Guidelines

To aid in your research, you can download the ACCORD Guidelines Checklist. This checklist will guide you through essential sections of your manuscript, ensuring that your study is presented with clarity and rigor.