International health consumers in the Cochrane Collaboration: fifteen years on.

The Cochrane Consumer Network (CCNet) is an international organization of volunteers, operating through the Internet, to enhance the accessibility and relevance of Cochrane systematic reviews and to promote evidence-based health care through consumer and community participation. This article presents the accomplishments and challenges of involving consumers in The Cochrane Collaboration as indicated by 2 surveys (CCNet-led evaluation 2006 and External consultant-led evaluation 2009). While consumers are effectively involved in commenting on prepublished Cochrane systematic reviews, opportunities exist to strengthen consumer participation in prioritizing, producing, and disseminating Cochrane systematic reviews and in promoting greater understanding and application of evidence-based health care in various countries and cultures. It is important that consumer participation adds value for all involved in the process and that it is developed in partnership.