Meritus Health Research Institute
The expert team at Meritus Health is advancing the science of medicine by performing cutting edge research right here in Washington County. We are committed to improving medical care and outcomes through research innovation. Participating in research can help benefit future medical treatments and Meritus Health values the commitment made by our patients who choose to participate. Our clinical research department provides support by carefully selecting clinical research trials addressing the needs in our community for expert care close to home.
Research addresses health issues worldwide. Over the decades research has successfully eradicated various diseases such as Polio, Measles, Mumps & Rubella, and Smallpox to name a few. Scientists are still working on eradicating Malaria, Trachoma, and COVID-19 among others. To learn more about how research has affected health issues over the years click here.
Research has made great advances in treatments for various health issues such as breast cancer like radiotherapy, hormone therapy and targeted chemotherapy with hopes to possibly help patients and minimizing side effects. Here at Meritus we continuously strive to offer these advanced treatments. If you need help in locating a clinical trial please complete this form and we will be glad to assist you in your search. Please send completed forms to Angie Angstadt at Angela.Angstadt@MeritusHealth.com.
Deciding whether to be a part of a clinical trial may be a very tough and worrisome questions. The answer will not be the same for everyone.
Most people are concerned about taking part in a clinical trial because they're not sure what it will mean for them. Get as much information as you need to make the choice that's right for you. Each clinical trial has benefits and risks. Before deciding to be in one, you need to have all your questions answered. Make a list of questions, take notes, or even have a family member or friend with you to help remember the answers and think of other questions. Some questions may not have clear answers as each person's situation is different.
HERE ARE A FEW QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER, BUT THESE ARE NOT THE ONLY QUESTIONS TO ASK.
- Why do I want to take part in a clinical trial?
- What are my goals, and how realistic are they?
- Do I have all the information I need to make an informed decision?
- Have I weighed the benefits against the risks?
- Who will have my personal and medical information?
- How much will this cost me?
- What is my doctor's opinion about my future if I decide to take part (or not) in this clinical trial?
- Have I looked at my other options?
If you are interested in learning about the types and phases of clinical trials click here.
Meritus not only provides these opportunities close to home but Meritus is also committed to protecting the people in our community who are participating clinical trials by having an Institutional Review Board (IRB). The main responsibility of the IRB is to protect the rights and welfare of the participants and their privacy. To better understand the IRB click here.
For researcher/physician use only
Institutional Review Board Information
Meritus Medical Center and the John R Marsh Cancer Center are committed to providing the best comprehensive care for our community, including research. Meritus is dedicated to protect the rights and welfare of all individuals who participate as subjects in research. It is the responsibility of every physician, nurse, and student to ensure that formal IRB approval is obtained before initiating contact with human subjects in any research project.
If you have any questions or would like assistance, contact the Office of Human Subjects Protection at 301-790-8825 or email Christine.Fornwalt@meritushealth.com.
Hours of Operation and important information:
- Tues., Wed. & Thurs 8:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
- IRB meetings held first Wednesday of the month.
- Located in Robinwood Professional Center, suite 229, room 2224
Below are links for forms needed to start the IRB process. If you have questions or need assistance call the Office for Human Subject Protection at 301-790-8825.
- IRB Application (must be completed first)
- Research Plan
- Instructions for CITI Training
- Consent Form
- Consent Form Instructions
- HIPAA Authorization Form
- Waiver of Consent & HIPAA Auth Request
- Waiver of Documented Consent Application
-
Progress Report
- Amendment Form
- Deviation Form
- Study Closure Form
- Submitting a Progress Report
Additional helpful links:
- Office for Human Research Protections
- U.S. Food & Drug Administration
- Clinical Trials.gov
- HIPAA and Research