Many larger IRBs are under tremendous pressure to meet the demands of their clients. Some are taking on too many clients, too quickly, resulting in a stressful and rushed atmosphere. The clinical research environment has changed over the years. There is a steady increase in research opportunities, which leads to a higher demand for IRBs. With Federal mandates, an increased workload and lack of resources, many IRBs are unable to get their clients to clinical trials in a timely manner. It is important that IRBs understand the needs of their clients, and be able to ethically fulfill those needs.
When an IRB is being pressured by a client to conduct a speedy review, IRBs need to keep in mind that although a speedy review may be in everyone’s best interest, it is vital to keep the potential patients’ interests in mind. No matter how much pressure an IRB is under, each IRB should establish a system for review that is effective and efficient, but does not overlook important issues.