Comprehensive disclosure information for the Task Force is also available online. CLINICAL STATEMENTS AND GUIDELINES Evidence Review and Evidence Review Committees In developing recommendations, the writing commit- tee uses evidence-based methodologies that are based on all available data.P-4 P-7 Literature searches focus on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) but also include registries, nonrandomized comparative and descriptive studies, case series, cohort studies, systematic reviews, and expert opinion. Only key references are cited. An independent evidence review committee (ERC) is commissioned when there are 1 or more questions deemed of utmost clinical importance that merit formal systematic review. The systematic review will determine which patients are most likely to benefit from a drug, device, or treatment strategy and to what degree. Cri- teria for commissioning an ERC and formal systematic review include: a) the absence of a current authoritative systematic review, b) the feasibility of defining the ben- efit and risk in a time frame consistent with the writing of a guideline, c) the relevance to a substantial number of patients, and d) the likelihood that the findings can be translated into actionable recommendations. ERC members may include methodologists, epidemiologists, healthcare providers, and biostatisticians. The recom- mendations developed by the writing committee on the basis of the systematic review are marked with SR. Guideline-Directed Management and Therapy The term guideline-directed management and therapy (GDMT) encompasses clinical evaluation, diagnostic testing, and pharmacological and procedural treat- ments. For these and all recommended drug treat- ment regimens, the reader should confirm the dosage by reviewing product insert material and evaluate the treatment regimen for contraindications and interac- tions. The recommendations are limited to drugs, de- vices, and treatments approved for clinical use in the United States. 