Keys to a Successful Self-Assessment

The success of achieving accreditation is dependent on the depth of your Organization's self-assessment, and on the actions you take in response to that self-assessment to improve your Organization’s Human Research Protection Program.


Have an organization-wide perspective: A successful self-assessment is supported by senior management and viewed as an Organization-wide activity. It is important to obtain input from all parts of your Organization that may affect the Human Research Protection Program. For example, human resources may help select research personnel, the contracting office may negotiate sponsor agreements, and the finance department may oversee resource allocation to components of the Human Research Protection Program.

Focus on outcomes: The goal of accreditation is to have an effective Human Research Protection Program. Evaluate whether you have the resources you need and whether your activities are effective and meaningful. Be creative about the procedures you follow. AAHRPP encourages innovation in meeting regulatory requirements and the accreditation standards.

Focus on systems: AAHRPP looks for effective, not perfect, systems. If you implement a new procedure and are unsure of its effectiveness, consider periodic evaluation to determine effectiveness and take corrective actions.

Make improvements: Identify the strengths and weaknesses of the Human Research Protection Program. Make improvements to your program. AAHRPP considers whether your Organization meets the standards by evaluating your activities at the time of the site visit, not at the time of application submission, and has no look-back period for new applicants.

Write for your organization, not for AAHRPP: When applying for accreditation, spend the time on your self-assessment and improving your Organization's Human Research Protection Program. If you find yourself writing long narratives or explanations directed only to site visitors, you should include this information in your organizational documents.

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