Decision Making Framework
Good health policy and effective risk management depend on good advice
from scientists.
Risk: A measure of both the harm to human health that results from being
exposed to a hazardous agent, together with the likelihood that the harm
will occur.
Health
Canada's Decision Making Framework is a process for identifying and
managing risks to health. These risks may arise from diseases, hazardous
substances, food, medical devices, drugs, tobacco and consumer products.
The Framework consists of a series of inter-connected and inter-related
steps.These six steps may be grouped into three phases:
- Issue identification (identify the issue and put it into context);
- Risk assessment (assess risks and benefits); and
- Risk management (identify and analyze options, select a strategy,
implement the strategy and monitor and evaluate the results).
Decision Making Framework
![Decision Making Framework](/web/20061211091224im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/sr-sr/images/ocs-besc/graph_e.gif)
Generally speaking, the process begins at the top of the diagram, and
proceeds clockwise through the other steps. The process is flexible in
that one may move back and forth between steps or revisit steps based
on available information. For example, a previous step may be revisited
when new information becomes available and needs to be considered.
Making Decisions Using Science
Scientists contribute at each of the above steps.
For example, scientists produce and collect the data relevant to the
issue, assess the risks based on all available evidence, and identify
possible courses of action. They are an essential voice during the decision-making
process where all risk factors are considered and weighed against potential
benefits.
Once a course of action is determined and implemented, scientists will
also monitor and evaluate effectiveness.
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