1. There is strong evidence | Consistent grades of high-quality evidence with uniform thought, and at least a moderate volume of references to support the recommendation(s) |
2. There is evidence | A mix of moderate- and high-quality evidence with uniform thought and at least a low volume of references; OR A mix of high- and low-quality evidence with uniform thought and high volume of references; OR High-level evidence coupled with GPPs, and at least moderate volume of references; OR One level I paper with at least moderate volume of references |
3. There is some evidence | Single level II (A) paper; OR Inconsistent grades of high and low evidence with uniform thought and moderate volume of references; OR Consistent grades of low-level evidence with uniform thought and at least a moderate volume of references |
4. There is conflicting evidence | A mix of levels of evidence with non-uniform thought, irrespective of the volume of evidence |
5. There is insufficient evidence | Low or inconsistent levels of evidence with low volume references with or without GPPs |
6. There is no evidence | Absence of evidence for any aspect of the patient journey |