ACVIM Endorsed Statements
ACVIM Endorsed Statements (AES) are a set of guidelines that critically evaluate the scientific literature and develop recommendations by recognized experts regarding diagnosis, or treatment of animal diseases. Developed by ACVIM Diplomates and other recognized specialists, these statements are intended to inform an overall decision-making process that supplements relative standards of care clinical judgment and relevant experience.
AES's consist of one of three types of statements:
Consensus Statements – best suited in cases for situations in which there is considerable variation in clinical practice and in situations where evidence is limited. These are developed using the Delphi method and reflect the collective opinions of a group of content experts.
Evidence-Based Practice Guidelines (“Guidelines”) - guide provision of current best practice care to animals and are based on a rigorous, methodical, evidenced-based review of the relevant literature. These are particularly applicable in areas in which there is availability of new, novel or innovative treatments, interventions or diagnostic methodologies.
Systematic Reviews - are important to veterinarians as they provide an objective assessment of existing data to assist with decision-making, can provide rationale and justification for future research, and are used as the basis for evidence-based practice guidelines. These are suitable for meta-analysis or detailed systematic review of topics that do not directly relate to clinical practice.
How AES's are Chosen
The most appropriate format for an AES will vary depending on the topic, the available published evidence and the intent of the statement. The format will be determined based on the recommendation of a qualified methodologist, who will be identified and contracted by the ACVIM to work in partnership with the panel of experts.
Panel Composition and Selection
- Panels typically include 6–8 recognized experts, with at least half being ACVIM Diplomates, and are led by an ACVIM-approved Chair and an ACVIM-contracted methodologist.
- Additional experts may be asked to advise the panel in a particular area when warranted.
- The panel Chair and members are approved by the Board based on recommendations of the ERC and specialty president.
Topics for statements are approved by the ACVIM Board of Regents (BOR), based on the recommendation of the Education and Research Committee (ERC) with input from the general membership.