Public Health Environmental Surveillance Evaluation Framework (PHES-EF)
The Public Health Environmental Surveillance Evaluation Framework (PHES-EF) is an international consensus study developing a comprehensive framework to evaluate public health environmental surveillance systems. We use wastewater-based surveillance as our primary example.
Our approach: We use the Delphi method—an iterative survey process using structured feedback and expert anonymity to build consensus. A diverse panel of global experts will help us create an evidence-informed framework for assessing surveillance system performance. Learn more about the e-Delphi study.
Next steps: We are finalizing the list of candidate items this fall. Registration for e-Delphi panellists opens in January 2027, Round 1 of the survey runs in March 2027 and Round 2 closes in May 2027.
Want to participate? Contact us
Project status
1
Executive group established
2
Generating candidate items
3
International e-Delphi survey
4
Consensus meeting
5
Dissemination
Latest news
Study update October 2026
Updated study timeline
Registration for e-Delphi panellists opens in January 2027. Round 1 runs in March 2027, and the consensus meeting is planned for September or October 2027.
Publication May 2025
Study protocol published in PLOS ONE
Our protocol for an international, multidisciplinary Delphi study is published open access.
Registration January 2025
Scoping review protocols registered
Our two scoping review protocols are registered on the Open Science Framework.
Funding & Acknowledgments
This project is funded by:
- Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CoVaRR-Net, FRN: 175622)
- Health Canada (Safe Restart Agreement, #2223-HQ-000098)
The views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the funding organizations.