Public Health Agency of Canada Scientific Framework for Guidance Development

Plain language summary

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) Scientific Framework for Guidance Development provides a common baseline approach for how science should inform guidance development at PHAC. The Framework was developed with internal and external expert engagement, and a comprehensive review of international scientific resources on guidance methods.

The Framework is built around the following eight principles:

1. Transparently reports processes and outputs
2. Knowledge user involvement and dissemination
3. Evidence-based products
4. Clearly stated, actionable recommendations
5. Advances health equity
6. Manages conflicts of interest
7. Promotes efficiency and public resource stewardship
8. Timely, current, and evaluated guidance

It aims to ensure that the guidance developed or commissioned by PHAC is trustworthy, clear and timely, based on the best available scientific evidence, and developed according to rigorous standards. The Framework is also intended to ensure that PHAC guidance supports emergency preparedness and response functions and promotes equity.

For more information on how PHAC uses science to promote and protect your health, please visit Public Health Science at Canada.ca.

Subject

• Public health,
• Public health surveillance

Keywords

• Public health,
• Public health surveillance,
• Public health guidance,
• Guidelines

Pagination

1-16

Peer review

No

Citation(s)

Public Health Agency of Canada. Public Health Agency of Canada Scientific Framework for Guidance Development. Ottawa, ON: Public Health Agency of Canada; 2026.