Table 1 Possible steps in an adaptation framework

1) Form an organizing committee.

2) Choose a guideline topic.

3) Identify resources and skills required for the process.

4) Write an adaptation plan and form a guideline adaptation group.

5) Determine the health questions.

6) Search for relevant guidelines and related documents.

7) Formally screen and review (i.e., assess currency, content, quality, consistency between sources and acceptability/applicability of the recommendations) selected guidelines.

8) Decide which guideline or recommendations to adapt, taking into account the quality of the source material, local conditions, and practicality of the guideline/recommendations/intervention.

9) Perform external review of the adapted guideline (by target audience, endorsement bodies, and source guideline developers).

10) Schedule evidence reviews and updates of the adapted guideline.