Directions or principles presenting current or future rules of policy for the health care practitioner to assist him in patient care decisions regarding diagnosis, therapy, or related clinical circumstances. The guidelines may be developed by government agencies at any level, institutions, professional societies, governing boards, or by the convening of expert panels. The guidelines form a basis for the evaluation of all aspects of health care and delivery.
According to the institute of medicine, practice guidelines are “systematically developed statements to assist practitioners and patient decisions about appropriate health care for specific clinical circumstances.” The american psychiatric association (APA) practice guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for the assessment and treatment of psychiatric disorders.
Consensus statements by professional societies or agents suggesting appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic options for patients with a specified diagnosis.