Guideline Development Process
General Process for HICPAC Guideline Development
See the chart below for information on the guideline update process.
STEP
1
Workgroup.
A workgroup is formed and meets for an extended period (e.g., months or years) to gather, examine, and interpret data.
STEP
2
Data.
The workgroup presents data and expert opinion to the full HICPAC membership for review and discussion. The full committee (not the workgroup) is charged with making recommendations to CDC.
STEP
3
First draft.
The first draft of new or revised guidelines is presented and discussed. If ready, the HICPAC members will vote on if the draft guidelines are ready for CDC review and public comment. Members weigh public discussion and the presented data.
STEP
4
Public comment.
If voting members approve, the guidelines are reviewed by CDC and then posted to the Federal Register for public comment, including industry input.
STEP
5
Review & revision.
CDC and HICPAC review and respond to the public comments. The guidelines are revised to reflect public input. CDC reviews again.
STEP
6
Vote & recommendation.
The workgroup presents the revised and pre-final draft for HICPAC approval. The members vote on the guideline and, if approved, recommend the final draft to CDC. Once guidelines are approved by HICPAC and complete a final CDC review, the CDC infection control website and related materials are updated.