Trends in the development of and emerging tasks of clinical practice guidelines in Korea

Abstract

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) have been developed by the members of the Korean Academy of Medical Science (KAMS) under the limited financial support of the Ministry of Health & Welfare and partnership organizations including the 11 Clinical Research Centers of the National Evidence-based Healthcare Collaborating Agency (NECA) in Korea. The Korean Medical Guideline Information Center (KoMGi), a database of evidence-based CPGs, opened on January, 2008, and it is a very useful nationwide dissemination tool of CPGs for health professionals. The following is a summary of emerging tasks related to CPGs in Korea. First, a strategy for efficient partnership between the private sector and government should be formulated and executed. Second, budget preparation and planning of financial support is needed for developing and disseminating evidence-based CPGs. Third, development of Korean-specific methodology is needed and technical support should be provided. Fourth, an educational training program should be developed for core confidence of guideline development groups. Fifth, to share current information and accelerate the dissemination of CPGs, the functions of Guideline Information Center should be reorganized and utilized. To develop highly applicable evidence-based CPGs, multidisciplinary communication and active participation among professional societies is desired.