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An IRB is a committee that performs ethical reviews of human subjects’ research proposals to ensure proper precautions are taken to protect the rights and safety of participants. The IRB has the authority to approve, require modifications in (to secure approval), or disapprove research projects. The board is also responsible for regular monitoring of previously approved research projects to evaluate actual risk to participants.
The primary purpose of the AHS IRB is to protect the rights and welfare of human subjects involved in research activities being conducted under its authority. There are several research populations described in the federal regulations as "vulnerable". These regulations require additional safeguards be in place "when all or some of the subjects are likely to be vulnerable to coercion or undue influence". Vulnerable populations include, but are not limited to: children, prisoners, pregnant women, cognitively impaired persons, and economically or educationally disadvantaged individuals. The primary purpose of the AHS IRB is to protect the rights and welfare of human subjects involved in research activities being conducted under its authority. There are several research populations described in the federal regulations as "vulnerable". These regulations require additional safeguards be in place "when all or some of the subjects are likely to be vulnerable to coercion or undue influence". Vulnerable populations include, but are not limited to: children, prisoners, pregnant women, cognitively impaired persons, and economically or educationally disadvantaged individuals.
IRB Members
The AHS IRB is chaired by the AHS Secretary's Office (Shawn Skaflestad), supported by the Secretary's Office (Laurie Hurlburt), and comprised of research SMEs from each of the AHS member departments. AHS IRB meetings are held monthly at the Waterbury State Office Complex in Waterbury, Vermont.
Current committee members are as follows:
- Shawn Skaflestad, chairperson, AHSCO
- Laurie Hurlburt, AHSCO
- Mary Woodruff, DAIL
- Carlie Lessard, DCF
- Shelia Leno, DMH
- Jacqueline Rose, DOC
- Mary Kate Mohlman, DVHA
- Peggy Brozicevic, VDH
- Matthew MacNeil, Community Representative
- Dixie Henry/Greg Needle, HIPAA Liaison, AHSCO (ad hoc)
- Jill Martin, Prisoner Advocate, Office of the Defender General (ad hoc)