The development of the GIN-McMaster checklist extension for guideline adaptation protocol.

Background: To ensure rigour and transparency in guideline adaptation and contextualization processes, standardized tools and methodological principles are needed. However, methodological challenges have been continuously documented in guideline adaptation processes. Objective: To develop a guideline international network (GIN)-McMaster guidelines development checklist (GDC) extension for guideline adaptation. Methods: This project follows multiphase iterative approach, including (1) compiling a list of key methodological steps for guideline adaptation, based on scoping reviews of the current knowledge of guideline adaptation; (2) proposing methodological principles for guideline adaptation based on key methodological steps, in parallel to developing the GIN-McMaster Guideline Development Checklist extension for adaptation (GDC-adaptation extension) concerning the original checklist and methodological steps for adaptation; (3) iteratively refining the methodological steps through GIN Adaptation working group discussions, and GDC-adaptation extension items through several rounds of Delphi consensus survey and (4) Public consultation and finalization. For methodological principles, this involves public consultation; for GDC-adaptation extension, we will conduct user testing through semi-structured interviews. Finally, we will submit the final outputs to the GIN board and seek final approval. Discussion: The identification of the key methodological principles, together with the GIN-McMaster GDC extension for guideline adaptation and contextualization, will provide clarity in the planning and execution of adaptation, adoption and/or development of recommendations. The aim of the checklist is to improve efficiency and reduce research waste in guideline development while maintaining rigour and transparency.