An expert consensus to define how higher standards of equitable care for von Willebrand disease can be achieved in the UK and Republic of Ireland

IntroductionVon Willebrand Disease (VWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder. However, recognition of the disease by both the public and healthcare professionals lags behind that of other bleeding disorders, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment for patients. Updated national guidelines are needed to highlight an appropriate pathway for managing VWD patients in a timelier manner. AimTo identify ways in which care for VWD can be achieved on a more equitable basis. MethodsUsing a modified Delphi approach, a panel of VWD experts developed 29 statements across five key themes. These were used to form an online survey that was distributed to healthcare professionals involved in VWD care across the UK and Republic of Ireland (ROI). Stopping criteria comprised 50 responses received, a 3-month window for response (February-April 2022) and 90% of statements passing consensus threshold. Threshold for consensus for each statement was agreed at 75%. ResultsA total of 66 responses were analysed with 29/29 statements achieving consensus of which 27 attained >= 90% agreement. From the high degree of consensus, eight recommendations were derived regarding how detection and management of VWD can be improved to provide equity of care between men and women. ConclusionImplementation of these eight recommendations across the VWD pathway has the potential to raise the standard of care for patients in the UK and ROI by reducing delays to diagnosis and treatment initiation.

Automated summary

Von Willebrand Disease (VWD) is a common inherited bleeding disorder, but awareness and understanding of the disease lags behind other bleeding disorders, causing delays in diagnosis and treatment. Updated national guidelines are needed to improve the management of VWD and provide equitable care for both men and women. Through a survey and analysis conducted by a panel of experts, eight recommendations were derived to enhance the detection and management of VWD.