Our Top 3 Delphi Method Examples in Healthcare: Achieving Consensus for Improved Patient Care
The Delphi Method is a technique used for gathering expert consensus on a specific topic to tackle complex healthcare challenges. By bringing together the opinions of experts, this method allows for effective decision-making and the creation of actionable solutions. In this article, we present 3 Delphi Method examples, demonstrating different applications of the method and the positive outcomes that resulted when subsequent communication campaigns were implemented.
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Supporting Policy Across International Geographies (EU)
A global leader in antibiotic development faced a challenge in introducing a new antibiotic treatment for Clostridium difficile infections (CDI) in Europe. Despite support from clinicians, the drug was seen as too expensive by EU payers, especially as clinical guidelines did not recognize the disease states where it was most effective.
To address this, a multi-disciplinary expert group was formed across Europe to define the challenges related to CDI risk factors and clinical burden. They developed a set of statements describing “ideal” practices, which were then tested with 1,047 expert respondents. The results and expert recommendations were published in the Journal of Hospital Infection and presented at major events such as ECCMID. These recommendations formed the basis for a campaign raising awareness of CDI risk factors and promoting proper antibiotic use. The campaign engaged EU policymakers, advocating for recognition of clinical needs, leading to updated healthcare policies and access to newer treatments.
Having numerous delphi method examples at Triducive, this one is typical of how the Delphi technique can be used to align clinical practice with policy on a larger scale, gathering experts from various regions to ensure that recommendations are relevant to diverse healthcare systems and patient populations.
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Improving Care Pathways for Respiratory Patients (UK, Canada)
In the UK, severe asthma affects 200,000 people annually leading to 1,400 deaths, often due to delays in diagnosis and misdiagnosis. The lack of clear referral pathways and criteria for specialized care being a significant barrier to timely treatment.
A multi-disciplinary expert panel including GPs, specialists and nurses defined ideal care practices from diagnosis to referral to specialist centres. Patient feedback was also integrated to refine referral standards. This process resulted in the recommendations being published in the British Medical Journal, and provided a platform for influencing national guidelines and local care pathway design, accelerating patient referral to receive specialist treatment.
Out of all the Delphi method examples we could have outlined, the use of the Delphi approach felt particularly interesting here, being used to design new pathways that can lead to better outcomes for patients. The same approach was then repeated in Canada, with the Canadian study being published in the BMC.
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Improving Equity of Access to Care (UK)
This project sought to address inequities in access to and choice of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in the UK. While evidence supported the safety and effectiveness of transdermal therapy, many UK formularies still listed it as a second-line treatment due to cost and established practices.
A multi-disciplinary expert group worked together to identify barriers to HRT access and developed ideal care practices. Testing was conducted with healthcare professionals involved in menopause care, using statements developed by the expert group. Recommendations aimed at promoting more equitable access to transdermal HRT were developed, and published in the Journal of Post Reproductive Health. Amplified by a Nationwide educational meeting program, this work empowered healthcare professionals to advocate for a more personalized and equitable approach to treatment, which influenced local guidelines and a shift in clinical practice.
This example showcases how the technique can help address healthcare disparities, particularly useful as personalized care becomes increasingly important and so is the need for choice when it comes to treatments.
Conclusion
These Delphi method examples demonstrate how the process of gathering expert consensus can lead to tangible improvements in healthcare when the results are supported by strong communications campaigns. Whether it is supporting policy, improving care pathways, or promoting access, the Delphi Method is a valuable tool for addressing complex healthcare challenges and improving patient outcomes all over the world.
Ready to employ the Delphi method and create positive change?
At Triducive, we specialize in delivering consensus-led evidence that gets published and supports change. With over a decade of experience and more than 50 peer-reviewed publications, we’ve helped transform evidence into action for healthcare systems worldwide.
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