HRS Scientific Documents Methodology Manual: Executive summary

Abstract

The Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) Scientific Documents Pathway was established to support the development of high-quality, evidence-informed scientific statements that advance the field of electrophysiology through the synthesis and communication of foundational knowledge, translational insights, and emerging trends. Unlike clinical practice guidelines, scientific documents are not designed to offer practice recommendations. Instead, they provide a framework for understanding scientific domains that impact the arrhythmia care community. The Scientific Documents Committee oversees the proposal review, development, and approval of these documents, ensuring transparency, balance, and methodological consistency. This executive summary outlines the core components of the Scientific Documents Methodology Manual, including document types, committee structure, proposal and review processes, writing committee expectations, conflict of interest management, and publication requirements. The manual is intended to support the HRS community, authors, and partners in understanding the process by which these documents are developed and how they serve the Society's strategic goals.