Introducing CARE-Q: Revolutionizing Research Ethics at PRIM&R 2023

Public Responsibility in Medicine and Research (PRIM&R) recently hosted its significant national conference, PRIM&R 2023, where groundbreaking advancements in ethical research practices were unveiled. Among these revelations stood the Consortium for Applied Research Ethics Quality (CARE-Q), a pioneering initiative jointly established by the University of California and Stanford University. CARE-Q made its grand debut at the conference, heralding a new era in peer-driven Institutional Review Board (IRB) quality assurance programs. 

PRIM&R serves as a vital platform for IRB professionals and the broader research oversight community, promoting ethical standards through education and professional resources. At this year's conference, CARE-Q availed IRB administrators, HRPP directors, other IRB professionals, institutional administrators, and federal departments of information about CARE-Q’s origins, objectives, processes, and availability to conduct IRB quality assurance assessments to certify IRB programs for quality and adherence to federal regulations. Of specific note is that CARE-Q provided information about how IRBs and institutions could use the CARE-Q certification process to satisfy the quality assessment requirement for joining SMART IRB (a national reliance agreement supported by National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) used by more than 1100 IRBs).

Representatives of CARE-Q from Stanford University, University of California San Diego, and University of California Davis exhibited information and met with conference attendees one-on-one to discuss CARE-Q, answer questions, promote our upcoming free webinar on how IRBs can review Artificial Intelligence (AI) research, and offer to follow up on interest in pursuing CARE-Q certification.

The impact of CARE-Q’s participation was resoundingly felt, as nearly 150 interested individuals signed up for further information about the program and employment opportunities. Moreover, over 1000 informational materials were distributed, highlighting CARE-Q’s commitment to disseminating knowledge and resources within the research community.

Looking ahead, CARE-Q affirms its dedication to active engagement within the research ethics sphere. While PRIM&R remains a priority for future exhibitions, the consortium aims to explore other avenues for showcasing its initiatives. By fostering connections, providing educational resources, and amplifying ethical research practices, CARE-Q remains at the forefront of shaping the future of research ethics.

For those intrigued by CARE-Q’s initiatives and eager to stay updated on future events and educational offerings, joining our mailing list is the gateway to remaining informed. As plans for PRIM&R 2024 take shape and additional opportunities emerge, CARE-Q pledges to continue its mission of revolutionizing research ethics.

CARE-Q's presence at PRIM&R 2023 marked a pivotal moment, underscoring its commitment to advancing ethical research practices. With an unwavering dedication to quality assurance and a vision for a more ethically sound research landscape, CARE-Q stands poised to make enduring contributions to the research community. 

Join us on our journey as we lead the charge towards ethical research practices and shape the future of research ethics!

UC San Diego ACTRI Communications