Construction and demonstrative application of an evaluation indicator system for the distinction of ancient books of traditional Chinese medicine based on the Delphi method and analytic hierarchy process

Objective: To construct a scientific and standardized evaluation indicator system for the distinction of ancient books of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), aiming to provide a scientific basis for their cascade protection. Methods: The Delphi method was applied to establish the evaluation indicator system for the distinction of ancient books of TCM, and the analytic hierarchy process was used to determine the weight of each indicator. Results: An evaluation indicator system for the distinction of ancient books of TCM was developed, including 4 first-level indicators and 15 second-level indicators. The experts’ enthusiasm, authority, and coordination of opinions were all satisfactory. Conclusion: An evaluation indicator system for the distinction of ancient books of TCM was preliminarily constructed. The system is targeted, well-structured, and exhibits strong scientific and practical significance.