Research at HCPC

Our Mission • Who We Are • Active Studies •
Research Intermediary • Contact Us

Research Intermediary

The research intermediary at The University of Texas Harris County Psychiatric Center serves as an additional advocate dedicated to ensuring that patients' rights are protected during their participation in research. The intermediary also functions as a liaison between patients involved in research studies, medical staff conducting the research, and UTHCPC.

The research intermediary meets initially with patients in order to confirm that patients understand the scope of the research as well as any risks and/or benefits to the patient. The research intermediary visits regularly with patients to determine if they truly understand the research study in which they are considering taking part, how they will participate and what patients expect from the experience. The intermediary seeks the answers to questions posed by the patients, addresses any concerns they might have and confirms that they, in fact, want to take part in the study. The intermediary reminds patients that they may change their minds about participating in the research at any time.

As the study progresses, the intermediary frequently visits with research patients to verify that they want to continue in the research project and see if any new concerns have emerged. The intermediary may, at the patient's request, or when the patient is found to lack the understanding or willingness to continue, request that a patient be removed from a study.

Another goal of the research intermediary is to serve as a type of sentinel for the University of Texas-Houston's federally mandated institutional review board, the Committee for the Protection of Human Subjects (CPHS). The committee approves and oversees all research protocols involving human beings throughout the university and is charged with protecting the rights of those who participate in any kind of clinical, behavioral or social science research, including "vulnerable populations" such as those hospitalized for mental illnesses. The intermediary keeps this committee informed and aware of the environment maintained during the conduct of research.

To contact the Research Intermediary, call 713-741-3951 or email patricia.averill@uth.tmc.edu