PHAC Expert Roster and Scientific Performance Measurement Database (December 2023)

Description of Program: The Expert Roster program, led by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), establishes a curated database of scientific experts in diverse public health fields. It ensures efficient selection and engagement of experts for advisory roles, enhancing evidence- based decision-making in public health matters. PHAC delivers the program directly and administers it through its internal systems, utilizing an online platform to collect and manage expert information.

Why was a Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) completed? This Privacy Impact Assessment has been conducted in accordance with the requirements outlined in section 6.3 of the Treasury Board Directive on Privacy Impact Assessment. The directive stipulates that federal organizations subject to the Privacy Act must conduct a PIA for new programs or initiatives that involve the collection, use, or disclosure of personal information. The Expert Roster Program falls within the scope of this requirement due to its collection and management of sensitive personal information to support PHAC's scientific endeavors. The completion of this PIA ensures a comprehensive examination of privacy risks and the establishment of appropriate safeguards.

More Information: This PIA focused on the Public Health Agency of Canada’s collection, use, disclosure and retention and disposition of personal information involved in the Program’s business processes. It does not extend to evaluating other components of the Science Performance Measurement Database (SPMD) initiative, such as research inventory, scientific publications, affiliations, evidence synthesis activities, or any other aspects beyond the Expert Roster. Additionally, specific technical details of the underlying IT infrastructure and security measures are beyond the scope of this assessment.

The PIA recommended mitigation actions in the following risk areas: retention and disposition processes, maintaining accuracy of personal information, and ensuring the appropriate security assessments and features such as access controls, audit functions, and encryption are in place when the program moves from its interim IT solution to a permanent IT solution.

If you would like more information about this Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) please contact: OCSOEngagement.BCSC@phac-aspc.gc.ca