Reader opinion Expert opinion and scientific assessment are different things

It goes without saying that the expert opinion of the department should not be disguised as a scientific assessment with references.

Department of Health and Welfare (THL) is not infallible and must be open to criticism. Nevertheless, Chancellor of Justice Tuomas Pöyst’s recent criticism (HS 29.11.) is weird. According to him, THL should say that its opinion is based on the views of experts and not on extensive scientific data, if not based on the opinion.

According to the law, THL’s mission is to study and monitor the health of the population and to provide expert support for the implementation of policies, policies and practices. The department’s research work is based on both its own and often large population data and extensive national and international research cooperation.

It should be self-evident to everyone that THL’s statements are independent statements of an expert body based on this, without emphasizing it. The underlying material or research is, of course, referred to as appropriate, but opinions are usually quick statements related to the decision-making situation.

See also  Helsinki | The bar-café Kvääristö is closing down, it started operating in June last year

In the new situations that abound in the twists and turns of this new corona pandemic, there is little valid set of research findings. This is the national value of a permanent state expert body for both decision-makers and the general public: the best advice from a collective community of experts can be given quickly – no time-consuming and peer-reviewed scientific advice that might even require new research.

In my opinion, it is self-evident that the expert opinion of the department should not be disguised as a scientific assessment with references. It is part of the often time-consuming activities of the scientific community, which, of course, is also carried out by THL in the production of scientific publications. These two things should not be confused.

Pekka Puska

THL: Emeritus General Manager, Helsinki

Reader opinions are speeches written by HS readers, selected and delivered by HS’s editorial staff. You can leave a comment or read the principles of writing at www.hs.fi/kirjtamielipidekirjoitus/.

See also  Camping | Pirjo Ressam inherited three summer cottages from his father - This is what it's like to be a cottage owner against your will

.
#Reader #opinion #Expert #opinion #scientific #assessment

Related Posts

Next Post

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recommended