topic: [[Researching]] created: 2025-03-10 *A consensus method to determine appropriateness of certain medical procedures.* ##### what is it? Like the [[Nominal Group Technique]], the [[RAM - RAND ULCA Appropriateness Method]] starts with identifying literature, and should be used in circumstances where there is a body of supporting literature. It involves starting with surveys, then having a facilitated meeting. ##### why does it matter? RAM does not force consensus, and allows a diversity of outcomes: >“Consensus should not be forced and the outcome may lead to a classification of “appropriate”, “uncertain”, or “inappropriate”. A common scale used is median scores in the 1–3 range are classified as inappropriate, 4–6 range as uncertain and 7–9 range as appropriate.” (Humphrey-Murto et al., 2017, p. 16) ##### What would the opposite argument be? What's the point of a consensus meeting that ends in uncertainty? Doesn't that risk a wasted effort? Not that many procedures have clear circumstances and clear evidence. tags: #note/idea | #on/research | #on/consensus ##### Sources: Humphrey-Murto, S., Varpio, L., Gonsalves, C., & Wood, T. J. (2017). Using consensus group methods such as Delphi and Nominal Group in medical education research. _Medical Teacher_, _39_(1), 14–19. [https://doi.org/10.1080/0142159X.2017.1245856](https://doi.org/10.1080/0142159X.2017.1245856)