Quality

ACTRI is committed to enhancing research quality through its Quality Assurance (QA) initiatives, ensuring adherence to standardized best practices. ACTRI’s QA team works diligently to identify challenges, streamline institutional processes, and provide critical consultation to investigators. By monitoring IRB reviews, responses, and approval times, ACTRI drives improvements that elevate ethical research standards

Consortium for Applied Research Ethics Quality (CARE-Q)

A key initiative under ACTRI’s QA program is the Consortium for Applied Research Ethics Quality (CARE-Q). This groundbreaking program, developed in collaboration with UC BRAID, Stanford University, and UC San Diego, serves as a peer-driven IRB quality assurance model. CARE-Q helps IRBs implement uniform quality assessment procedures, ensuring compliance with national research ethics regulations.

The development of CARE-Q was informed by an extensive survey of CTSA hubs and affiliate institutions, highlighting the demand for an affordable yet comprehensive QA framework. The program has successfully piloted IRB quality assurance procedures, leading to widespread adoption across various institutions.

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National Recognition at PRIM&R 2023 and 2024

Public Responsibility in Medicine and Research (PRIM&R) hosts a national conference to advance research oversight and ethical standards. CARE-Q debuted at PRIM&R 2023, engaging with IRB administrators and federal agencies to showcase its certification process for SMART IRB membership. At PRIM&R 2024 in Seattle, CARE-Q highlighted its peer-driven model for IRB quality assurance, drawing interest from institutions of all sizes. With a focus on compliance, efficiency, and community engagement, CARE-Q continues to support ethical research through innovation and collaboration.

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