Which best describes the purpose of expedited review in IRB processes?

The purpose of expedited review in the Institutional Review Board (IRB) processes is to streamline the review processes for research studies that involve minimal risk to participants. This means that studies which do not present significant threats to the participants’ physical or psychological well-being may qualify for a quicker review, allowing for more efficient initiation of research while still adhering to ethical standards. The expedited review process maintains oversight and protection for participants while providing researchers with a more timely pathway to begin their studies.

This approach is particularly beneficial in fast-paced research environments or when timely outcomes are critical, ultimately balancing the need for ethical oversight with the practicalities of conducting research. It ensures that studies that truly require extensive oversight are still subjected to it, while those that are lower in risk can benefit from a quicker approval process.