Table 6 Descriptions of criteria domains and evidence levels
Criteria domains | |
|---|---|
Domains | Descriptions |
Study Design | The elements of study design(s) used to evaluate a strategy, primarily the use of a comparison group and assessment before (pre) and after (post) a strategy is used |
Implementation Outcomes | The effect and effect direction of deliberate and purposive actions to implement new treatments, practices, and services |
Rigor & Limitations | Aspects of the study design that may limit the validity or generalizability of the results |
Strategy Specification | The level of specificity about the strategy for purposes of reproducibility |
Equity Impact | The impact of the strategy among target populations disproportionately impacted by the HIV epidemic |
Evidence Levels | |
Evidence Levels | Descriptions |
Non-Recommended | Strategies demonstrate a harmful effect Strategies would not be recommended for practice or scientific investigation |
Needs More Evidence | - Strategies demonstrate null results or positive results from preliminary research Strategies would be recommended for additional research with more rigorous research designs |
Promising | Strategies demonstrate positive outcomes but may be limited on some aspects of criteria domains Strategies would be recommended to practitioners but may require careful monitoring to ensure similar outcomes |
Best | Strategies demonstrate positive outcomes from rigorous research Strategies would be recommended to practitioners for the barriers they are intended to address |