AAHRPP FAQ
What is AAHRPP and why is it important to Dartmouth?
AAHRPP, the Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs, Inc., is an independent, non-profit organization that reviews and accredits institutions engaged in human subjects research to protect the rights and welfare of the research participants. AAHRPP accreditation bolsters Dartmouth’s reputation as a leader in human subjects research. Research sponsors and other research partners increasingly consider AAHRPP accreditation before pursuing collaborations, or providing funding, for research.
For additional information on the value of accreditation, please visit this site.
What happens during the site visit?
AAHRPP will select the individuals to be interviewed based on the protocols list and key HRPP personnel submitted with the accreditation application. In addition to investigators, site visitors will interview study coordinators, co-investigators, and other study team members. Key HRPP personnel, IRB Members, and Human Subjects Office/IRB staff will also be interviewed.
How will people be selected for interviews?
Interviewees will be selected who reflect the ranges of experience, number of protocols reviewed, types of ongoing research, and research risk levels at the organization.
What interview questions will AAHRPP ask?
AAHRPP is interested in your awareness of and knowledge about key human research concepts and policies, including, but not limited to:
- Human subject research regulations such as the Common Rule (45 CFR 46), FDA regulations, the Belmont Report, and Conflict of Interest Policies
- Human subject protections and the procedures you use to implement them such as elements of informed consent, strategies for minimizing risk, reporting of adverse event and unanticipated problems
- The strength and effectiveness of the HRPP, including education and training, adequacy of resources for researchers, and HRPP structure
- Interviewees are not expected to know the regulations or policies word for word, but should know who to contact to answer questions about these topics.
NOTE: The specific questions you will be asked by the AAHRPP site visitors will depend upon your role within the Dartmouth Human Research Protection Program.
I am selected for the interview. How can I prepare for it?
If you have been selected for the AAHRPP site visit interview, the Dartmouth CPHS will help prepare you for the interview. You can also review the Site Visit Interview Guidance page (available soon) for more detailed guidance.
For questions or additional information, please contact the CPHS staff:
Ann O'Hara, Director: Ann O'Hara
Kimberly Lyford, Senior Human Research Analyst: Kimberly Lyford
Kelly Tanguay, Senior Human Research Analyst: Kelly Tanguay
Rachel Bibeault, Senior Human Research Analyst and Reliance Specialist: Rachel Bibeault