Beyond Citation Metrics: A Pilot Scoping Review to Rapidly Characterize Article Impact

Abstract

Abstract Background Systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMAs) support evidence-based practice in laboratory medicine. However, there is little in the literature to address the challenge of globally characterizing the impact of SRMA findings and recommendations. We propose that characterization of citing studies through the structured methods of scoping review provides a meaningful window. Content A scoping review method characterized the impact of a test utilization SRMA’s findings and recommendations through use of a 17-item structured charting template. Following charting, we used descriptive content analysis to identify patterns of utilization, while incorporating current conceptual thinking on healthcare quality improvement. Summary Rapid scoping reviews support descriptive characterization of SRMA impact and linkage of studies to evolving concepts in the quality improvement literature. The approach may be especially appealing to communities of practice, e.g., to support reflective practice. This pilot suggests that primary studies that have cited the 2018 SRMA have utilized some, but not all, aspects of the 2018 SRMA.