Is it research?

The scope of REB review includes all research involving human participants conducted under the auspices of Sinai Health. According to the Tri-Council Policy Statement (TCPS), “research” is defined as:

“…an undertaking intended to extend knowledge through a disciplined inquiry and/or systematic investigation. The term “disciplined inquiry” refers to an inquiry that is conducted with the expectation that the method, results and conclusions will be able to withstand the scrutiny of the relevant research community.”

Quality assurance and quality improvement projects do not constitute research when used “exclusively for assessment, management, or improvement purposes”, as per Article 2.5 of the TCPS. In the event that an investigator cannot determine whether an intended investigation constitutes research or quality assurance/improvement, please complete the Screening Determination Form and submit it to [email protected] for review.

For other inquiries, please contact the REB Office at 416-586-4875 or [email protected]. Providing such consultation on ethics matters is part of the responsibility of the Board.