Patient Volunteers Needed: ASH Clinical Practice Guidelines on Venous Thromboembolism
The American Society of Hematology (ASH) invites volunteers to serve as patient representatives on panels that will develop new clinical practice guidelines about the diagnosis and treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE).
VTE occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins of the body (called deep vein thrombosis) and travels to the lungs, where it blocks blood flow to the lung tissue (called pulmonary embolism). A blood clot can also travel to the brain, causing stroke.
Clinical guidelines review available evidence and provide recommendations to physicians about how to diagnose or treat a medical condition. ASH has formed ten guideline panels to examine ten different aspects of VTE, including heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) and thrombophilia. Each guideline panel includes clinical experts in VTE as well as individuals who are expert in how to review scientific evidence.
By including individuals on these guideline panels who have personally experienced VTE or who have experienced taking care of someone with VTE, ASH aims to ensure that the panels give attention to the perspective of patients. Individuals who volunteer for this project will have opportunity to make a valuable contribution to the guidelines. They will be included in discussions about evidence, and they will participate in decision-making about recommendations.
If you would like to participate or have questions about this opportunity, please contact Starr Webb, MPH, at swebb@hematology.org. Preference will be given to those who contact ASH by July 15, 2015. Volunteers will continue to be considered until July 24th.
FAQs:
Is this a Clinical Trial?
No, there are no medications or devices involved. Volunteers for this project will review written summaries of evidence and participate in making written recommendations about VTE.
How much of a time commitment?
The project is expected to begin by August 2015 and conclude by December 2016, and most work will be done by conference calls. There will be one 2-day in-person meeting, within the United States, at a location to be decided, but likely in Washington, DC. Your travel expenses will be covered by ASH.
Is the position paid?
Participating as a member of the panel is not paid. However, you will be reimbursed for any travel costs associated with your participation.
