The Differences and Connections Among Expert Evidence, Expert Opinion and Expert Consensus in the Development of Guidelines

Abstract

Expert evidence, expert opinion, and expert consensus are frequently mentioned and used in the process of guideline development. However, due to the lack of clear definitions and standards, there is confusion and misuse among the three in practice. This paper clarifies the meanings, current status, differences, and connections of expert evidence, expert opinion, and expert consensus in the development of guidelines, aiming to provide a reference for guideline developers in China.

Keywords

• clinical practice guideline
• expert evidence
• expert opinion
• expert consensus