Improving the quality of clinical practice guidelines in China: A call to action for editors of medical journals

Abstract

High-quality clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) have the potential to standardize medical practice and improve patient outcomes. However, in China, the quality of CPGs is generally lower than the global average, particularly in terms of methodological and reporting quality. This hinders the dissemination and implementation of CPGs in healthcare practice. To enhance the scientific rigor and authority of CPGs, their development should adhere to reporting guidelines. As medical journals serve as the platform for CPG publication, editors of medical journals have a significant responsibility for the quality control of publishing CPGs. We call on editors of medical journals to be equipped with the CPG reporting guidelines, implement them in their journal practice, and actively participate in the development of CPGs. Additionally, editors of medical journals can also promote CPG quality awareness among medical professionals and journal editors. These efforts will contribute to the high-quality development of CPGs in China.