Rapid Review and Synthesis of Qualitative Evidence: A Search and Mapping Review of Existing Guidance and Examples

Data from the Cochrane Qualitative and Implementation Methods Group register confirm that qualitative evidence syntheses are proliferating. Rapid qualitative evidence syntheses are likewise increasing due to an apparent policy imperative for person-centered health care and to ensure that patients’ and caregivers’ perspectives and experiences are central to health-care decisions. The need for rapidity requires either a substantial increase in resources or, more commonly, a compromise in rigor. Generic methods are developing for many types of rapid review, but we are not aware of published guidance for rapid qualitative evidence synthesis. In order to inform de novo guidance, we are conducting a systematic mapping review to identify existing guidance and published examples. We have searched Medline and CINAHL using medical subject headings and keywords related to ‘‘rapid reviews’’ and ‘‘qualitative’’ research and screened the 1,771 resultant citations independently in duplicate to identify relevant papers. We will summarize methodological papers and related guidance using a Search, AppraisaL, Synthesis, Analysis framework. We will summarize approaches used to abbreviate the synthesis process by authors of published examples. Our analysis and interpretation will focus on the implications of abbreviating various steps of the synthesis process. Overall, our review will identify the extent to which current guidance and practice offers a methodological evidence base to develop common expectations and methods for rapid qualitative evidence synthesis.