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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
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