The Institutional Review Board (IRB) for Human Subjects Research has been established to safeguard individuals participating as subjects in research conducted under the supervision of the Hospital, aligning with FUH's ethical and legal obligations and DHA rules and obligations. Before commencing any study, research conducted at, supported by, or affiliated with Fakeeh University Hospital must undergo a thorough evaluation by the IRB. The primary goal is to ensure the protection of human subjects' rights, both physically and emotionally, from any potential violation.
The level of risk involved for human subjects determines the type of review the research project undergoes. Depending on this risk assessment, studies may be exempt from review, receive an expedited review, or undergo a comprehensive evaluation, all in accordance with the Board's policy and guidelines.
The assessment is guided by the IRB Committee's policies and guidelines, with a focus on the concept of minimal risk, which helps determine whether a formal and extensive review of the research proposal is necessary based on the subjects' best interests.
1. Voluntary and Informed Consent: All research subjects must willingly and knowledgeably consent to participate in the study. They should be fully informed about the nature of the research and its potential implications before providing their consent.
2. Confidentiality Protection: Researchers are responsible for ensuring the confidentiality and privacy of the subjects' information. Any data collected during the research must be handled securely and used only for the intended purposes.
3. Balancing Risks and Benefits: The potential risks posed to the research subjects must be carefully weighed against the potential benefits of the study. Researchers must disclose these risks transparently to the subjects, allowing them to make informed decisions about their participation.
If you are interested in applying for IRB approval, please reach out to us at the following email address: fuhirb@fakeeh.care We will be glad to assist you with the application process and answer any further inquiries you may have.
In general, the members of the Institutional Review Board (IRB) committee play a crucial role in ensuring that research upholds the highest standards of ethical conduct, scientific rigor, and good clinical practice. Each member brings a unique blend of expertise and experience to the committee, which contributes to the comprehensive review of research protocols.
The IRB comprises representatives from diverse departments, including medical physicians, allied, and administrative departments, to ensure comprehensive expertise in the review process.