Interdisciplinary Tradition of CPG Conference Continues to Produce Results and Impress Participants

The interdisciplinary nature and development methodology that have resulted in the publication of 14 clinical practice guidelines (CPG) to date recently produced drafts for CPGs on COPD and Acute Change of Condition. Workgroups featuring experienced practitioners, caregivers, administrators, and others met August 23-25, 2002, in Baltimore, MD. The draft documents they developed will be refined, revised, reviewed, and revised again, all with the goal of publishing the finished products sometime in 2003.

Being chosen to participate on a CPG development workgroup is considered an honor. "It is exhilarating, challenging, and humbling all at once to be part of such a project," says Susan Levy, MD, CMD, Chair of the COPD workgroup. "Fortunately, AMDA has perfected a methodology that takes us through the process with a stepwise approach," she adds. Lisa Cantrell, RN, a participant in the CPG project from its start in 1994, marvels at how the project has matured and evolved. However, she notes that one aspect hasn't changed, "Every year, the commitment and energy of group members are consistently high. These people really want to create something that makes a difference for their colleagues and their patients." William Simonson, PharmD, a member of the CPG steering committee, observes that some group members seem unsure at first about how others will seek or accept their opinions. He notes, "CNAs, for example, often are shy about making comments. But the group leaders always make it clear up front that everyone's opinions count; and, before long, people forget their inhibitions and speak right up."

Leaders at the CPG Consensus Conference included:
     Clinical Practice Guideline Project Chair - Larry Lawhorne, MD
     Chair of COPD Workgroup - Susan Levy, MD, CMD
     COPD Workgroup Facilitator - Harlan Martin, RPh, CGP
     Chair of ACOC Workgroup - Steven Levenson, MD, CMD
     Co-Chair of ACOC Workgroup - Mary Pat Rapp, MSN, RN, GNP

Watch future issues of this newsletter for updates on the guidelines and their anticipated publication date.

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