Who will answer my questions?
The research team will explain the research study to you. The consent form includes this explanation. You should take your time when you read the consent form.
If you have any questions, ask the research staff. If you don’t understand something, ask them to explain it to you so you do understand. The information will be given to you in a language that you know. If English isn't your native tongue, ask for an interpreter to be present when you are discussing the research study with the research staff.
You can take the information home. You can discuss it with your family, friends, a health care provider, or others before you decide whether or not to take part in the research study. If you decide to take part in the research study, you will be asked to sign the consent form.
The informed consent process is more than just signing a piece of paper. It is a process that goes on throughout the research study. During the research study, you may be told of new findings, benefits or risks. At that time, you can decide whether or not to continue to take part in the research study. You may decide not to take part. You may change your mind and leave the research study before it starts. You may also leave at any time during the research study or the follow-up period.
If you have questions about research at the Harvard University Area (HUA), please contact the HUA IRB office listed below:
Harvard University Area IRB
1350 Massachusetts Avenue
Smith Campus Center
Suite 645
(6th floor)
Cambridge, MA 02138
(617) 496-2847
cuhs@harvard.edu
Please call or email if you have concerns or complaints, or just want to talk to someone about research at this organization.