Collaborative Endeavors

A Team Perspective on Co-authoring Systematic Reviews with Medical Students

Abstract

Introduction: Evidence synthesis (ES) projects have been on the rise, providing a way to work collaboratively without needing to use a lab or meet in person. ES projects are a good method for all involved to learn more about the subject, to foster meaningful collaborations among team members, and to establish and improve mentoring skills. The authors conceptualized, formulated, drafted, and published a diagnostic accuracy systematic review on rapid antigen tests used to detect COVID-19. During the review, varied challenges arose, many unanticipated. To address them the authors and team members developed effective strategies that may benefit future ES projects.

Experience: The article describes the experiences of the varied team members, which included medical students, a librarian, faculty, and a data analyst. The article addresses the collaborative process including defining roles and responsibilities. Next, the authors describe laying the foundation of the project so that as team members were recruited, the project flowed smoothly. The team then reflects on the management of the project over multiple years. As with many ES projects, the protocol needed to be revised, and the authors share their approach to these changes.    

Discussion: The librarian's collaboration with both students and faculty members yielded significant benefits, including improved mentoring skills, enhanced team coordination, and diverse perspectives gained through interdisciplinary collaboration. The challenges faced by navigating the literature landscape and managing the team are also described.

Takeaways: Librarians are in a unique position to advocate for multi-disciplinary teams, incorporating a data analyst early on, and judiciously using software in evidence synthesis projects. These projects help build the backbone of medical literature.