Consensus Recommendations for Anti-Racist Child Health Research: A Modified Delphi Study

OBJECTIVES This study aimed to develop consensus on a comprehensive and abridged list of recommendations for conducting anti-racist research across all stages of a pediatric research project. Anti-racist research aims to ensure that the construct of race is correctly interpreted, and that racially and ethnically minoritized communities are fairly engaged throughout a research project. METHODS Using a modified Delphi approach, experts in equitable pediatric research methods completed three rounds of surveys and virtual focus groups between April and December 2023. Round 1 asked experts to add to or revise themes and subthemes gathered from a systematic review of published anti-racist practices. Round 2 included ranking items’ importance; items voted in the top 50% by 60% of experts were included in an abridged list of essential practices. In Round 3, experts reviewed the final guidance and had the option to rescue items for inclusion in the abridged guidance. RESULTS Fourteen experts with diverse personal and professional backgrounds participated. Experts added new themes and edited existing ones, creating a comprehensive list of 68 recommendations by consensus and identifying 36 to include in the abridged list of essential practices. They also discussed complex topics such as who these recommendations apply to, the nuances of equitable community engagement, and the dangers of health equity tourism. CONCLUSIONS An expert panel achieved consensus on a comprehensive and abridged list of recommendations for how to conduct research in an anti-racist, equitable way. These can inform research teams, regulatory agencies, and funders to improve pediatric research.