What is the purpose of the AHA/ASA's clinical practice guidelines?
The purpose of the AHA/ASA's clinical practice guidelines is to provide recommendations applicable to patients with or at risk of developing cerebrovascular disease in order to improve quality of care and align with patients' interests. Although guidelines may be used to inform regulatory or payer decisions, the core intention is to inform medical practice in the United States, and many aspects are relevant to patients throughout the world. Guidelines are intended to define practices meeting the needs of patients in most, but not all, circumstances and should not replace clinical judgment; furthermore, the recommendations set forth should be considered in the context of individual patient values, preferences, and associated conditions.