Interpretation and application of the quality assessment tool(QATSM-RWS)for real-world studies in systematic reviews and meta-analysis
Focusing on research quality is a crucial aspect of modern evidence-based medical practice,providing substantial evidence to underpin clinical decision-making.The increase in real-world studies in recent years has presented challenges,with varying quality stemming from issues such as data integrity and researchers'expertise levels.Although systematic reviews and meta-analyses are essential references for clinical decisions,their reliability is contingent upon the quality of the primary studies.Making clinical decisions based on inadequate research poses inherent risks.With the lack of a specialized tool for evaluating the quality of real-world studies within systematic reviews and meta-analyses,the Gebrye team has introduced a new assessment tool-QATSM-RWS.Comprising 5 modules and 14 items,this tool aims to improve real-world research evaluation.This article aims to elaborate on the tool's development process and content,using this tool to evaluate a published real-world study as an example and providing valuable guidance for domestic researchers utilizing this innovative tool.