Participatory cross case analysis of five community-based research ethics review processes

Introduction: To ensure the ethics and integrity of the research in which they and their communities are engaged, a growing number of community groups have developed their own research ethic review processes that operate independently or in conjunction with institution-based Institutional Review Board (IRBs). Our prior study identified 109 community groups across the U.S. with such processes in place. We used a participatory process to conduct a national collaborative study documenting the contributions they make to ensure the ethics and integrity of community-engaged research (CEnR). To gain an in-depth understanding of how these review processes function, CCPH partnered with five community-based organizations to conduct a cross-case analysis.

Approach: In year one, we analyzed data obtained through structured interviews, focus groups and reviews of documents from 2 community IRBs and 3 community-based research review committees. In year two, we conducted a cross-case analysis drawing on the individual case studies and a focus group held with the study team.

Results: Cross-case analysis revealed case differences that included demographics of the communities served and practices/policies (i.e., voting practices, membership criteria).  Case similarities included underlying commitments to the community, rationale for developing a review process, and ethical issues considered.

Discussion: This session will provide an overview of the study methodology, describing our partnership formation and collaboration. We will discuss the different models of community-based review processes and the benefits and challenges of implementing a review process. We will also provide an overview of study findings.