Publishing clinical case reports
The publication of clinical case reports is an example of a non-research activity that is exempt from ethics review. However, case reports involving more than 2 individuals are classified as a case series and require ethics review.
In addition to obtaining patient consent for the publication of a case report, researchers are required to submit a request for an exemption from HREC review.
Exemption application process
- Complete the QLD Exemption form in Ethical Review Manager (ERM).
- Upload all supporting documentation to the exemption form, sign the application and select submit.
- Exemption applications are reviewed by the HREC chairperson out of session.
A site-specific assessment (SSA) application is NOT required for non-research activities or exempt research (unless otherwise specified by the Pathology Queensland Research Office).