The scope (see link below) defines what aspects of care are covered by the guideline and to whom it applies.

The NCCs may make a focussed call for evidence on specific clinical questions or subquestions, after it has done initial searches. It will be able to make a call at any point during development of the guideline, and stakeholders will usually be given 4 weeks to respond. The NCC will approach all registered stakeholders for this evidence. The NCC may not issue any calls for evidence for a guideline if the Guideline Development Group (GDG) feels it is not necessary.

In addition, the NCCs will accept relevant confidential data for consideration by the GDG.

Development of the clinical guideline is under way and is being led by the National Collaborating Centre. The Guideline Development Group meets regularly to oversee and assist the identification, review and synthesis of the evidence, the incorporation of expert consensus opinion and the translation of the evidence into recommendations for practice and audit criteria. Three versions of the guideline are under preparation: a full guideline, a NICE short-form guideline and information for the public. Please see timescales above for dates of the first and final rounds of consultation with stakeholders.