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Guidance

Guidelines for Non-Study-Specific Subject Recruitment Communication

Approved September 13, 2005 by University of Michigan IRB Council

Definition

Non-study-specific recruitment communications are those materials that do not specifically relate to an IRB-approved study/protocol/program. These materials are typically general in nature. They serve to facilitate subject recruitment by raising awareness, delivering information about being a research subject, and providing links to information about specific research participation opportunities.

Elements include:

1. Non-study-specific portal to match subjects to specific studies and registries
2. Generic information for prospective subjects
3. Research announcements that promote research in general to community and are intended to inspire interest of prospective subjects

Examples include:

1. Web sites
2. On-hold scripts
3. Advertisements (print, radio, TV)
4. Brochures/pamphlets
5. Press releases

Institutional Roles

1. Policy

1. IRB approval is not needed for non-study-specific recruitment
2. Non-study-specific recruitment communications should follow guidelines

2. Guidelines

Do's •  Consider readability to communicate to general public •  Spell out acronyms •  Keep current or remove •  Provide balanced information •  Be realistic and accurate

Dont's •  No study-specific contact information •  No coercive or overly inducive content (e.g., scary or threatening scenarios, glowing testimonials, overly positive photos or images) •  No false or over-promise content or over-promote (e.g., “treatment”) •  No corporate advertisers or sponsors •  No solicitation of funds except through formal institutional processes (e.g., through the Development Office or departmental administrator)

3. Authority

As complaints or concerns regarding content come to the attention of institutional authorities (ultimately OVPR), these authorities will present the guidelines to recruitment content “owners” for correction.

 

Contact UMHS Public Relations for assistance and advice in developing these types of communications.