IRB: Ethics & Human Research

First Impressions: The Experiences of a Community Member on a Research Ethics Committee

My first two years as a community representative on a research ethics committee have given me a challenging, rewarding, and sometimes confusing acquaintance with the medical world.  My role in reviewing research ethics protocols involves asking good questions and getting satisfactory answers.  By bringing a different set of priorities and concerns to our meetings, I try to represent, advocate for, and guard the rights of potential study participants.

Key words/concepts:  community member, research ethics committee, consent document, privacy, Tri-Council Policy Statement (TCPS)