Table 5 Bias domains to be assessed using the QUIPS tool

Study participation

Study sample adequately represents the population of interest

That is, relationship between HEART score and MACE unlikely to be different for participants and eligible non-participants

Study attrition

Study data available (i.e. participants not lost to follow-up) adequately represent study sample

That is, relationship between HEART score and MACE unlikely to be different for completing and non-completing participants

Prognostic factor measurement

Prognostic factors measured in a similar way for all participants

That is, measurement of HEART score unlikely to be different if MACE is present versus absent

Outcome measurement

Outcomes of interest measured in a similar way for all participants

That is, measurement of MACE unlikely to be different with varying HEART scores

Statistical analysis and reporting

Statistical analysis appropriate, and all primary outcomes reported

That is, reported results unlikely to be spurious or biased due to analysis or reporting