Delphi consensus reached to produce a decision tool for SelecTing Approaches forRapid Reviews (STARR)

OBJECTIVES: There are many rapid review methods; however, there is little pragmatic guidance on which methods to select. This study aimed to reach consensus among international rapid review experts outlining areas to consider when selecting approaches for rapid reviews.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: A two-round modified online Delphi survey was conducted between May and July 2018. Participants were asked to rank the importance of a predefined list of 19 items. A consensus definition of at least 70% agreement for each item was decided a priori.

RESULTS: Thirty experts from ten countries participated in Round 1 and 24 in Round 2. During Round 1, consensus was reached on all items. One additional item on quality assessment was suggested by respondents and comments suggested wording changes to improve clarity and understanding of the tool. Respondents in the second round indicated a high level of importance and all 20 items achieved consensus. These items addressed interaction with commissioners, scoping and searching the evidence-base, data extraction and synthesis methods, and reporting of rapid review methods.

CONCLUSIONS: International consensus was reached to produce the STARR decision tool for planning rapid reviews and will lead to improved shared understanding between review teams and review commissioners.