Useful
sites:
'Research
Governance' aims to:
· set standards.
· define mechanisms to deliver standards (using local research
ethics committees, LRECs).
· describe monitoring and assessment arrangements.
· improve research quality and safeguard the public.
and is for all those taking any part in the research process: researchers,
managers of research, funding agencies & participants
As can
be seen from Research Governance Framework for Health & Social Care
(2001 p. 3), it applies to 'clinical and non-clinical research, research
undertaken by NHS staff using NHS resources, and research undertaken
by industry, the charities, the research councils and universities within
the health and social care systems.'
What does
all this mean in practical terms for you as a health professional about
to embark on the research process?
· Permission must be sought from the local research ethics committee
(LREC).
· All studies must have appropriate arrangements for obtaining
consent.
· Particular attention must be given to ensuring confidentiality.
· Participants, or their representatives, wherever possible,
should be involved in the design, conduct, analysis and reporting of
research.
· Risk to participants must be kept to a minimum.
· Your research findings must be made available to critical review
through accepted scientific and professional channels eg. abstract for
presentation at conference; peer review by professional journal.
· You must be seen to show respect for the dignity, rights, safety
and well-being of participants.
· You must demonstrate personal & scientific integrity.
· Honesty, accountability and openness must be demonstrated with
clear supportive management.
Dr Chris
Mayers,
November 2002