BSACI Guidelines

NICE  has accredited the process used by the BSACI to produce its patient management guidelines. Accreditation is valid from 2010 until 2018. More information on accrediatations can be viewed at www.nice.org.uk/accreditation.

In 2004 BSACI set up the Standards of Care Committee to develop guidelines for use in secondary care by both adult physicians and paediatricians practising allergy. The process of guideline development is informed by the AGREE instrument (Appraisal of guidelines for research and evaluation) and the SIGN (Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network) 50 guideline developer’s handbook and has been continually adapted and refined.

BSACI guidance is produced by Guideline Groups selected and approved by the BSACI Standards of Care Committee. The work of the SOCC and Guideline groups is supported by the BSACI Research officer who is a staff member of BSACI Head office. The work undertaken by the SOCC, the guideline group members and the lay person(s) is on an honorary basis although expenses to attend meetings are funded by the Society. The Society does not seek external funding for the production of its guidelines.

BSACI guidelines are based on the best available evidence. It is however recognised that evidence in some areas may be sparse or of poor quality. It is thus important that robust methodology is used to develop guidance even in areas where the evidence base is weak. Guidance for good practice for these topics is often much needed, and can also serve to highlight areas for future research. BSACI guidelines aim to adhere to the AGREE criteria ( www.agreecollaboration.org).

BSACI guidelines are designed to give guidance in the United Kingdom. Special considerations are therefore given to drugs available within the NHS. The ethnic diversity within the UK should be considered by providing guidance on specific needs or risks within ethnic groups. A schematic overview of the BSACI's guideline development is downloadable here (27kb).

To read more about the BSACI’s guideline development you can download the BSACI guideline manual here (200kb).