Systematic Review Teams

Each review is conducted by a team of specialists in systematic review methods and subject matter experts. This approach helps to:

• Ensure that reviews are useful and comprehensive
• Include input from people who know about and have experience with the interventions reviewed
• Reduce errors or bias when interpreting the information reviewed, and
• Consider the viewpoints of key stakeholders.

Systematic Review Development Teams include:

Coordination Team: A group of 6–12 people who conduct the review with leadership from a CDC coordinating scientist and support from Community Guide staff. The team typically includes experts in the topic area, a Task Force member, a Liaison, an economist, and one or more research fellows. This group develops the logic model for the review, conducts data collection and analysis, and presents findings.

Consultants: Experts who offer advice to the coordination team throughout the review process.

Dissemination Team: Task Force members, Liaisons and Community Guide staff play critical roles in disseminating the concept of systematic review as well as new Task Force recommendations and findings, to help assure that the Community Guide is applied to public health practice. Activities include:

• Informing constituents and partners (e.g., email, newsletters, Web sites, workshops)
• Translating, or encouraging others to translate, the science-based recommendations and findings into practical actions that are included in public health strategies and programs