The INGUIDE International Guideline Training and Certification Programme

Abstract

Health guidelines impact clinical, public health and policy practice, but there is no regulation for their development, often leading to variability in quality and trustworthiness. The International Guideline Training and Certification Programme (INGUIDE), established by faculty at McMaster University in partnership and under the auspice of the Guidelines International Network (GIN), addresses this shortcoming by offering structured, evidence-based training and certification for those involved in guidelines (inguide.org). This commentary describes INGUIDE's background, purpose, structure and significance after approximately 3 years of operation. INGUIDE's mission is to enhance the quality of health guidelines globally. It provides comprehensive training to ensure the systematic development of guidelines based on the best evidence and adherence to international quality standards, as reflected in its ISO:9001 certification. The programme also emphasizes capacity building, filling educational gaps, and ensuring the global inclusivity of its courses. INGUIDE's certification covers the entire lifecycle of guideline development and includes several levels of certification, ranging from panel member to methodologist, lead methodologist, developer, chair and instructor certification. The programme already has had a global impact, training over 1500 learners since its launch. INGUIDE is led by a steering committee with input from an international advisory board and operational staff, supported by certified instructors. The programme's vision for the future includes expanding accessibility and creating additional training modules, with a commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation to diverse healthcare contexts, in particular low- and middle-income countries and settings.