The Task Force engaged an external consultant, Ms. Leslie MacLeod, whose background in law, research ethics, and conflict resolution were especially germane to the project. During its four months of work, the Task Force met nine times, and an additional 35 meetings between Task Force members, the consultant, and stakeholders both inside and outside of HSC were held. Task Force members interacted with both the University of Toronto and the Medical Research Council of Canada during this process. Statement of Principles HSC is committed to conducting research that will advance knowledge relating to the health care and treatment of children, and to developing policies that ensure the safety and well-being of subjects, support and protect the work of researchers, and conform to relevant laws and standards. Individual researchers, the Research Ethics Board, and HSC have separate and collective responsibilities to ensure that research conducted at or under the auspices of HSC is of the highest ethical and scientific standards.
All staff have a responsibility to adhere to research policies.
Researchers require access to research policies that are relevant, clearly written, and accessible. HSC commits to a regular review of policies relating to research, and to education to promote further understanding of policies. HSC is committed to timely resolution of disputes related to research through established conflict resolution processes. This section addresses the responsibilities and obligations of those who conduct research. Revision of policies clarifying the responsibilities of researchers to maintain the confidentiality of patient information, and outlining appropriate requirements for accessing health records for purposes of research.