Alberta unveils new research ethics model

The deputy ministers for the Alberta ministries of Health and Enterprise and Advanced Education have accepted a proposed new model for human health research ethics in the province. The model was developed at the behest of the ministries by Alberta Innovates - Health Solutions. It is more integrated and harmonized than the current ethics review although the ministries are requesting further discussion and refinement before final approval. Effective December 1st, the number of research ethics boards will be reduced from six to three and new reciprocity and data sharing agreements will kick in, providing functionality of the Provincial Health Research Ethics Information System. The interim ethics review is aimed at helping maximize opportunities for Albertans and researchers, while providing a more competitive provincial environment that will help attract increased research investment and activity....