OBJECTIVES: Systematic literature reviews (SLRs) are the foundation informing clinical and cost-effectiveness decisions in health technology appraisals (HTAs). A key step is the standardization of data extraction to minimize errors or subjective bias in data interpretation as previously highlighted. However, given this is an integral component of SLRs, do established data extraction templates (DETs) exist to facilitate this process?

METHODS: A comprehensive literature review using pre-defined criteria was conducted to identify DETs or guidance on data extraction elements across several sources: Embase, Medline, key conferences, relevant research organizations, and HTA bodies. No time restrictions were applied. Screening was conducted by two reviewers. The rationale for the guidance and recommendations for data extraction were extracted by one reviewer and checked for accuracy by a second reviewer.

RESULTS: Of 2390 hits retrieved, seven publications were included. Three recent publications were specifically on DET guidance for epidemiological SLRs, health state utility values and complex meta-analyses. The other publications included one review of methodological guidance documents, one review of data extraction tools and two were not specific to an SLR type.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite the global recognition to streamline SLRs towards a "living" approach, with always up-to-date evidence, and the urgency to improve data extraction accuracy, little to no established standardized templates per HTA topic of interest exists. To share data and trust the accuracy of information provided, standardized templates are needed.