BC Clinical Research Informed Consent Form Guide and Template

How to use this document

This document is intended to assist investigators in producing consent forms that meet the
requirements of the following UBC-affiliated and BC regional health authority REBs/RRC:
 BC Cancer Agency REB
 Children’s & Women’s REB
 Providence Health Care REB
 UBC Clinical REB (CREB)
 Fraser Health REB (including studies involving SFU-affiliated investigators)
 Interior Health REB
 Northern Health Research Review Committee (not currently a constituted REB)
 Vancouver Island Health Authority Clinical REB

Adherence to these guidelines may not be sufficient, however, and investigators should also
refer to the guidance notes and policies of the individual REBs (see Appendix I).
All Information required by the potential participant to make a free and informed decision
to participate in the research must be included in the consent form. If any of the required
sections have not been included, a consent document may be returned to the applicant for
amendment.

The appendices provide more detail on specific aspects of the consent form creation.
Appendix I includes links to REB guidance notes, policies, and forms.
Appendix II includes general style and formatting guidelines.
Appendix III includes general directions to those responsible for obtaining consent.

Before you begin

1. To ensure you are using the most current version of this template, download a new
copy each time you create consent forms. To use the template, you may copy this and
use it as a guideline.
2. Required wording is highlighted in yellow.
3. Recommended wording is in regular font.
4. Instructions are provided in italics.
5. Once you have completed your draft:
a. Delete all italic content
b. Remove colour highlighting from the remaining text
c. Finalize the footers and remove the headers.
d. Remove template appendices
6. Consent forms must be saved on the appropriate letterhead, as follows:
a. BCCA REB requires BCCA letterhead.
b. C&W REB requires UBC and/or Hospital/Program Department letterhead.
c. PHC REB requires UBC and Providence Health Care/Providence Clinic
Letterhead.

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d. UBC CREB requires UBC Department letterhead or VCH or VCHRI letterhead, if

appropriate.
e. FH REB requires Fraser Health Authority letterhead.
f. IH REB requires Interior Health Authority letterhead if the study will be carried
out by an IH site investigator. If the study is multi-jurisdictional, addition of the
IH logo to another site’s letterhead is acceptable.
g. NH prefers not to have its logo on the letterhead; the consent form should be
on the principal investigator’s institutional letterhead.
h. VIHA REB requires VIHA letterhead.

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 BC Clinical Research Informed Consent Form Guide and Template

Consent Form Elements

(Click on the element to move to the corresponding section.)

Title of study
Principal investigator, co-investigator, sponsor, emergency contact
1. Invitation
2. Your participation is voluntary
3. Who is conducting the study? (includes conflict of interest disclosure)
4. Background
5. What is the purpose of the study?
6. Who can participate in this study?
7. Who should not participate in the study?
8. What does the study involve?
9. What are my responsibilities?
10. What are the possible harms and discomforts?
11. What are the potential benefits of participating?
12. What are the alternatives to the study treatment?
13. What if new information becomes available that may affect my decision to
participate?
14. What happens if I decide to withdraw my consent to participate?
15. Can I be asked to leave the study?
16. How will my taking part in this study be kept confidential?
17. What happens if something goes wrong?
18. What will the study cost me?
19. Who do I contact if I have questions about the study during my
participation?
20. Who do I contact if I have any questions or concerns about my rights as a
participant?
21. After the study is finished
22. Signatures

Appendix I – Links to REB Guidance Notes, Policies, and Forms

Appendix II – General Style and Formatting Guidelines
Appendix III – General Directions to those Responsible for Obtaining Consent

Template content and instructions begin on the next page.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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Participant [Subject] Information and Consent Form

An individual recruited into a study should be referred to as the

“participant.” “Subject” may be used, but “participant” is preferred
in TCPS2 (see chapter 2.A.).
The chosen term must be used consistently throughout the document,
including in the Title of Study.

[insert Title of Study]

The title must be the exact title of the research protocol and include (if
applicable) the protocol number.
A short simplified title may accompany the title if it is too difficult for a
layperson to understand. The title should convey that the proposed
intervention is for research rather than for educational, treatment, or
other purposes.

Study personnel
For BCCA and VIHA REB:
Principal Investigator must be identified.
One lead Principal Investigator for each additional
participating BCCA or VIHA centre must be identified.
Co-Investigators are not required to be listed.
For IH REB: All co-investigators must be listed.
All other REBs require at least the PI to be included; listing other study
personnel is optional.

Principal Investigator: [insert name, degrees held]

[insert UBC/PHC/CW/BCCA/IHA/NHA/VIHA Department]
[insert institution/centre]
[insert contact phone number(s)]

Co-Investigator(s): [insert name(s), degrees held]

[insert UBC/PHC/CW/IHA/NHA/VIHA Department]
[insert institution/centre]
[insert contact phone number(s)]

Sponsors: [insert names of all sponsors, granting agencies, and

coordinating groups.]

Emergency Telephone Number

A 24-hour, 7-day a week phone number is required for all studies that
include non-minimal risk research procedures or interventions. Ideally, a
person needing emergency assistance should not be required to go

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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through a switchboard. If using a switchboard, ensure that requisite

information is available and is kept current regarding referrals.
Refer to local REB policies for further guidance.

Required wording for BCCA REB. Note that the researcher is responsible for
ensuring that emergency numbers are provided and correct. For non-emergency
contact numbers, insert the appropriate contact information from Sections 19 and 20
(Who do I contact…?).

For emergencies only: Call the centre nearest you and ask for your study doctor or, if he or
she is not available, ask for your usual oncologist or the oncologist on-call.

Vancouver Centre (604) 877-6000

Vancouver Island Centre (250) 370-8000
Fraser Valley Centre (604) 581-2211
Abbotsford Centre (604) 851-4700
Centre for the Southern Interior (250) 862-4000
Centre for the North (Prince George) (250) 645-7300

For non-emergency contact numbers: [insert contact numbers].

For pediatric studies: Place the following bolded text above the
Invitation.

If you are a parent or legal guardian of a child who may take part in this study, permission
from you and the assent (agreement) of your child may be required. When we say “you” or
“your” in this consent form, we mean you and/or your child; “we” means the doctors and
other staff.

For studies that recruit adults who lack capacity: Place the following
bolded text above the Invitation.

If you are a substitute decision-maker for someone who may take part in this study,
permission from you and the agreement and the assent (agreement) of the potential
research participant may be required. When we say “you” or “your” in this consent form,
we mean the research participant; “we” means the doctors and other research staff.

1. Invitation

Describe the characteristics of the sample population that are important

for the study, e.g. you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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Recommended Text

You are being invited to take part in this research study because [insert details].

2. Your participation is voluntary

This section should stress the voluntary nature of participation.
Procedures for study withdrawal are described in Section 14: What
happens if I decide to withdraw my consent to participate?

Recommended Text

Your participation is voluntary. You have the right to refuse to participate in this study. If you
decide to participate, you may still choose to withdraw from the study at any time without
any negative consequences to the medical care, education, or other services to which you are
entitled or are presently receiving.

You should be aware that there is a difference for both you and your doctor between being a
patient and being a research participant. As a patient all medical procedures and treatments
are carried out for your benefit only according to standard accepted practice. As a research
participant you and your doctor also must take into account the requirements for the
research study. These may include procedures and treatments that are not part of standard
practice or are not yet proven. This consent form describes the diagnostic and treatment
procedures that are being carried out for research purposes. Please review the consent
document carefully when deciding whether or not you wish to be part of the research and
sign this consent only if you accept being a research participant.

If you wish to participate in this study, you will be asked to sign this form.

Please take time to read the following information carefully and to discuss it with your family,
friends, and doctor before you decide.

3. Who is conducting this study?

Name all agencies contributing funds, including grants-in-aid, resources,

and drugs and other products.
Declare any actual or potential conflicts of interest regarding
remuneration received from the sponsor that are above or beyond
reimbursement for costs to conduct the study, such as additional payment
for conducting or being involved with any part of the study (e.g., study
design) and/or possible benefits from commercialization of research
findings.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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Recommended Text

This study is being conducted/sponsored by the [name of research group, e.g. industry
sponsor/granting agency].

Or,

This study is not receiving funds from an external agency or sponsor.

BCCA REB conflict of interest statement is required if applicable.

The sponsors of this study may reimburse the BC Cancer Agency for all or part of the costs of
conducting this study or they may provide the BC Cancer Agency some or all of the standard
or experimental medications being used in this study. However, neither the BC Cancer
Agency nor any of the investigators or staff conducting this study will receive any personal
payments for conducting this study.

For all other REBs, the conflict of interest statement is required if

applicable.

The Principal Investigator [insert study personnel and/or institution] has received financial
compensation from the sponsor [name the sponsor] for the work required in doing this
clinical research and/or for providing advice on the design of the study/travel expenses/etc.
Financial compensation to researchers for conducting the research is associated with
obligations defined in a signed contractual agreement between the researchers and the
sponsor. Researchers must serve the interests of the participant and also abide by their
contractual obligations. For some, the payment of financial compensation to the researchers
can raise the possibility of a conflict of interest. You are entitled to request any details
concerning this compensation from the Principal Investigator.

4. Background

The background section should be different from the “purpose”

section below that will describe the specific goals of the study.
Provide a brief explanation of why the research is being done (explain
the basis for the experimental intervention) so that the participant can
understand why a particular health problem/intervention needs to be
studied.
Include non-technical information on the prevalence or incidence of a
disease, the problems associated with a disease, the poor outcomes for
other treatment methods, previous studies, etc.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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This section must include the standard/usual treatment(s) or care for

participants who are eligible for this study and the likelihood of the
known therapeutic effect and the duration of that effect, so that the
participant can compare this to what is being proposed in the study.
Include a brief explanation of participants’ involvement in the study.
When applicable, address the following key points:
 If placebo controls are being used, explain what a placebo is
(i.e. explain that a placebo is an inactive substance, that it looks
identical to the test drug/intervention but that it contains no
therapeutic or experimental ingredients) and explain and why it
is appropriate to use such controls
 Whether the research is being carried out for the first time in
humans
 If the research is part of a larger multi-site clinical trial,
indicate whether there are other Canadian sites and/or
countries where the study will be conducted
 The total number of participants that will be recruited and the
expected number at the local site
For drug or device studies, include the following Health Canada
information, modified as necessary.

Recommended Text

Health Canada has not approved the sale or use of [insert study drug/device] to treat [insert
disease, including stage of disease where relevant, for example, for cancer], although they
have allowed its use in this clinical study.

Or,

Health Canada has approved the sale or use of [insert study drug/device] to treat [insert type
of disease], although they have not approved its use for [this disease/stage of disease, or at
this dose, etc.], they have allowed its use in this clinical study.

5. What is the purpose of the study?

This section should be distinguished from the “Background” section so

that the participant can easily identify the specific goal(s) of this research
project. The goal statement should specify exactly what the study hopes to
find out.
In addition, the purpose of Phase I, II, III, or IV clinical trials, pilot
studies, extension studies, etc., must be explicitly explained in lay terms to
participants, so that they can understand the current stage of scientific

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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investigation of the therapy, and therefore, what scientific question(s) the

study is trying to answer.
Note: Only descriptive statistics are appropriate. Neither the project
description nor the consent document should imply that a definitive
answer will result.
Refer to the TCPS2 Chapter 11 for information on clinical trial phases.

[Insert goal statement]

For a pilot or feasibility study

For BCCA REB applications, please also follow the guidelines in the
document “Elements Required for a Pilot or Feasibility Study.pdf” also
posted on the BCCA REB webpage for New Applications.

Recommended Text

A “pilot study” or “feasibility study” is done to test the study plan and to find out whether
enough participants will join a larger study and accept the study procedures. This type of
study involves a small number of participants and so it is not expected to prove safety or
effectiveness. The results may be used as a guide for larger studies, although there is no
guarantee that they will be conducted. Participation in a pilot study does not mean that you
will be eligible to participate in a future larger study. Knowledge gained from pilot or
feasibility studies may be used to develop future studies that may benefit others.

For a Phase I Study

The language used throughout the study should make it clear that this is
NOT a study in which efficacy will be determined. Phase I studies are
neither expected nor intended to provide personal benefit.

This is a Phase I study. A Phase I study is a trial of an experimental study drug or treatment
which is tested in a small group of people for the first time to evaluate its safety, determine a
safe dosage range, and identify side effects. Phase I studies are neither expected nor
intended to provide a direct personal benefit to participants.

Include the following if applicable and modify accordingly.

The purpose of this study is to find the highest dose of a new drug [insert agent] that can be
tolerated without causing very severe side effects. This is done by starting at a dose lower
than the one that does not cause side effects in animals. Participants are given [insert agent]
and are watched very closely to see what side effects they have and to make sure the side
effects are not severe. If the side effects are not severe, then more potential participants are
asked to join this study and are given a higher dose of [insert agent]. Participants joining this
study later on will get higher doses of [insert agent] than participants who join earlier. This

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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will continue until a dose is found that causes severe but temporary side effects. Doses
higher than that will not be given.

For a Phase II Study

This is a Phase II study. A Phase II study is undertaken after preliminary safety testing on a
drug or treatment. It is usually conducted on a small number of individuals (100-300
persons), and its goal is to begin to find out what effect it has on your [insert disease or
condition] and to further evaluate its safety.

For a Phase III Study

This is a Phase III study. A Phase III study is a study of an experimental drug or treatment
which is given to large groups of people to confirm its effectiveness, monitor side effects,
compare it to commonly used treatments, and collect information to determine whether the
experimental drug or treatment can be used safely.

For a Phase IV Study

This is a Phase IV study. A Phase IV study is a study of an approved drug or treatment (also
called “a post marketing study”) which is conducted to obtain additional information
regarding the drug’s or treatment’s, benefits and optimal use.

For Expanded Access Protocols (EAP): See BCCA REB guidelines posted
on the web page for New Applications.

6. Who can participate in this study?

List, in point form, the major characteristics indicating eligibility to

participate in this study. This list should be limited to inclusion criteria
that the potential participant is likely to be aware of.

Recommended Text

You may be able to participate in this study if:

 [insert criteria]

7. Who should not participate in this study?

List, in point form, the major characteristics indicating ineligibility to

participate in this study. This list should be limited to exclusions that the

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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potential participant is likely to be aware of (e.g., illnesses and medical

conditions).
Exclusion criteria should not be the opposite of inclusion criteria. They
address the question: of those who meet ALL of the inclusion criteria,
what characteristics/criteria/features are there ANY ONE of which would
make an otherwise eligible participant ineligible?
If specific medications must be avoided by participants, indicate here and
list them.
If participants must live within a certain distance of the centre, indicate
this restriction and why it is necessary (e.g., because participants
receiving experimental drugs must be able to come back to the hospital or
center quickly if any severe or unexpected problem develops.)
If excluding due to reproductive risks specify. E.g., “If you are pregnant
or of childbearing potential and/or a man who is able to father a child,
you must agree to avoid pregnancy (and clarify for how long).” See
details under Reproductive risks in Section 10, and PHC required wording
below.
If breastfeeding is an exclusion, indicate here and for how long, (e.g. only
while on treatment, or longer).
Further details regarding reproductive risks will be required under
Section 10 of the consent.

Recommended Text

You will not be eligible to participate in this study if:

 [insert criteria]

Required wording for PHC REB studies (recommended wording for other
REBs):

Because we do not know if or how an unborn baby/fetus could be harmed, you should avoid
becoming pregnant. Talk to your study doctor about the risks to your unborn baby/fetus if
you did get pregnant. Work with your study doctor to find the best solution to make sure you
do not get pregnant, if you wish to be in the study.

8. What does the study involve?

Explain in lay terms exactly what will happen to a participant who enrols
in the study. Participants should be able to understand the extent of their
involvement in the research and each step of their participation in it (e.g.,
screening procedures, treatment procedures, follow-up).

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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Describe the overall design of the study first, with respect to the different
treatment arms/groups (should this apply), followed by a detailed
description of the specific steps of the research, including the screening
phase. A reference to the availability of any optional parts of the study can
be included with an explanation that a separate optional consent will be
provided with the details that they will need to sign if they wish to take
part in the optional study.
It is also helpful to have a separate sub-heading for screening procedures
used to determine eligibility for enrolment and to distinguish them from
procedures that are part of the conduct of the study. This can follow the
initial description of the overall design.
Research-related procedures may include standard or common
investigations that would not normally be done in routine clinical care for
the particular problem being investigated or that are done more frequently
during the research than in routine clinical care for that particular
problem. These should be distinguished from standard care. Standard care
and related tests do not normally need to be disclosed unless they are
being investigated as part of an experiment.
The following sections describe specific information that can be included
in the consent form when applicable to the individual study.

Overall design of the study

This first section should include, as applicable, a description of the following specific
information:
 Any specific testing which may be required to determine eligibility for the
research (e.g. biopsy results, psychological tests, blood work, etc.)
 The research intervention: i.e. testing a new drug, undergoing surgery, review of
records, undergoing specific diagnostic procedures (e.g. X-rays, MRI, taking
blood), completing a questionnaire, answering questions in an interview, etc.
 The different treatment “arms” (i.e. study groups). Ensure that the description of
each is presented in such a way (e.g. separate paragraphs with sub-headings) that
participants can discern the differences among the arms. A diagram of the
different arms is often helpful.
 The differences between standard therapy and the experimental procedures and
whether or not the participant will continue to receive standard therapy.
 How participants will be assigned to specific treatment arms (i.e. randomization –
explain that this is like the flip of a coin so that there is an equal chance of being
in any of the groups; double-blinding – neither the researcher nor the participant
will know which group they are in). Note that a description of a placebo arm in lay
terms should have been given earlier in the consent form – see Section 4).
 Double-blinding should include an explanation that the code can be broken in the
case of an emergency so that the study drug can be identified;

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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 The overall duration of the study and how this would differ from that of standard
care, the number of visits, and the length of each visit (use a sub-heading to make
this information easy for the participant to find);
 The number of questionnaires and/or interviews, the period of time over which
these would be administered, and the length of time it may take to fill out
questionnaires or participate in interviews. Include a statement that participants
do not need to answer questions that they are not comfortable answering.

If You Decide to Join This Study: Specific Procedures

This section should describe in detail the research procedures that the participant
would experience.
 Use sub-headings for each step in the participant’s involvement, including
screening.
 Ensure that specific tests are spelled out initially before using acronyms.
 Describe the dosages of all study drugs.
 If applicable, specify the amount of blood/tissue to be taken each time as well as
the total amount of blood/tissue to be taken (i.e. state the amount of blood to be
taken in teaspoons/tablespoons NOT millilitres).
 Charts are often helpful to summarize procedures and time commitments,
especially for complex or long-term studies.

Recommended Text

If you agree to take part in this study, the procedures and visits you can expect will include
the following: [Insert procedures]

Additional recommended text for Blinded Studies

This study is double-blinded, meaning that neither you nor your doctor will know which
study medication you take. However, this information is available in case of an emergency.

Sub-Headings
If there is more than one part to the screening visit, use sub-headings for each.

Screening Visit/Initial Visit/Before You Begin the Study

[insert details]

Randomization Visit
[insert details]

Study Visits

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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These can be described in a variety of ways depending on the research

procedures, e.g.: Day 1, 2, 3; During the First Year of Your Participation
in the Study; During the Remaining Years of Participation in the Study;
First/Second/Third Visit; For Participants in Group 1/Group 2.

Expected Follow-up

Describe the number of follow-up visits and their duration.

Use of Data from Secondary Data Sources

If data is collected from secondary data sources for the purposes of the study, the
consent form must meet the requirements of TCPS2 Ch.5 section D.
See also local REB Guidance Notes (links in Appendix I).

Optional Studies

A separate section should be used to explain briefly about the availability

of any optional studies that are not part of the main study and for which
separate consent must be obtained, for example, tissue and blood banking
studies, pharmacokinetic studies, use of individual data, records, or
personally identifying information in another study, and analysis of
secondary data from linked databases.

Recommended Text

The following studies are optional. For each optional study, you will be provided with a
separate consent that describes the details, and which you will be required to sign if you wish
to participate. You can take part in the main study and not take part in these optional studies.
If you decide not to take part in any or all of the optional studies, your care will not be
affected.

Mandatory/Optional Blood or Tissue Collection and/or Biobanking

Mandatory tissue/blood collection must be limited to what is required for

the conduct of the current study. Otherwise, it is considered optional and
separate consent must be obtained.
See local REB policies and guidance notes for further information
regarding consent requirements and tissue/biobanking consent templates.
For BCCA REB studies – see BCCA REB Interim Guidance on
Mandatory Consent for Tissue Acquisition in Clinical Trials

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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If mandatory tissue/blood collection is applicable, its use must be

explained and assurance given that biobanking for unspecified, unrelated
or genetic research will not occur.
Use lay language to explain the scope of the research.
Explain how the samples will be identified, where they will be stored and
for how long.
Explain that once these tests have been completed, any leftover samples
will be returned to the facility from which they were obtained if needed, or
destroyed (or if applicable; that they will be given an option to allow these
to be used for other future research purposes, in which case they will be
given a separate optional consent form to sign.)
If the tissue sample will be obtained from previously collected tissue,
explain that no additional biopsy will be required.
Explain that the samples will only be used for the purposes described in
this consent document and will not be sold.
Explain who will/will not receive reports about any research tests done on
these samples and whether the reports will or will not be put in their
health records.
Consider the use of flow charts or some form of graphic display to
illustrate the handling and use of specimens; e.g. from initial collection of
specimens, to banking, to distribution for future research. The chart could
indicate when de-identification of specimens occurs and could show
involvement of REBs in reviewing the use of specimens for future research.
If optional specimens will be obtained (tissue, blood, other material) for
research, refer to the local REB’s consent form template for tissue and/or
blood collection or other additional optional testing. Only tests that are
required for participation in the main study should be described in the
main consent. A statement may be made to indicate that an optional
component is available and that a separate consent document will be
provided and reassure the participant that they may choose not to
participate in the optional part of the study and still participate in this
main study.

9. What are my responsibilities?

This section should list and specify any requirements of the study that
the participant must comply with in order to participate, but avoid
language of a contractual or legal nature. This may include requesting
that the participant contact their research doctor before taking any
medication other than the study drug. Avoid placing redundant
information in this section. For example, if birth control

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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responsibilities are described elsewhere in the consent, they do not

need to be repeated in detail here, although a brief reminder “to avoid
pregnancy” may be included.

 [insert list]


10. What are the possible harms and discomforts?

The following information (and any other relevant information) should

be included in this section where applicable:
Explain the risk that the participant’s condition may worsen.
Disclose all known risks and discomforts associated with study
procedures, including social and psychological risks/discomforts,
risks to others, reproductive risks (see recommended wording
below), genetic risks (see required wording below), risks that
require counselling (describe whether counselling will be made
available), and risks related to testing for reportable diseases, and
risks related to use of placebo or associated with drug washout
periods.
Indicate whether the harms of the study drug may be severe,
disabling, irreversible, or may cause death.
Indicate whether the risks are fully known and whether there may
be unexpected harms/side effects, including unexpected effects of
novel drug combinations or because the study drug is in an early
stage of development.
Quantify the risks/discomforts in percentages, or use an
appropriate numerical estimate, wherever possible. Arrange by
groups of likelihood. For example: “Very Common (approximately
50% or greater)…Common (20-50%)…Less Common (5-20%)
Uncommon (2-5%)…Rare (less than approximately 1%-2%)….”
Clarify the risks to women should they become pregnant as well as
any risks to potential fathers (see recommended wording below);
Instruct participants that they should immediately inform their
study doctor of any side effects they experience, if applicable;
Instruct prospective participants to discuss the known side effects
with their study doctor prior to their decision to participate in the
study;
Clarify that participants assigned to the placebo group may
experience worsening of their condition since they will not have
their condition treated.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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List in bold text any medications, supplements, or foods that

should not be taken while on the study.
Disclose the role of any data safety monitoring board or committee
(i.e., explain that an independent group of experts will be
reviewing the data for safety at intervals throughout the study).
Disclose any potential loss of opportunity to receive standard care
or the related known benefits from standard care.

For further information regarding describing risks to participants,

refer to the local REB’s guidance notes (links in Appendix I).

For FH REB format for inclusion of risk information see FH

REB’s Guidance notes for Initial Ethical Review Section #13,
Harms.

Risks and Discomforts from Standard Treatment

Risks and discomforts of standard treatment(s) are not normally listed,
unless safety and/or efficacy of standard treatment(s) are being studied
or standard treatment(s) is (are) being compared to experimental
therapy, or if the standard treatment (drug) is being given in
combination with an experimental treatment (drug). Side effects and
other issues related to standard interventions should be explained
following usual clinical practice. However, a statement should be
included in the consent to explain this.

Recommended Text

The risks and side-effects of the standard or usual treatment of [insert details] will be
explained to you as part of your standard care.

Reproductive Risks
If a pregnant partner consent is required, this should be submitted to
the REB. This can be submitted later as an amendment, should a
pregnancy occur.

Recommended Text

Because the effects that [insert study drug] may have on an unborn child are unknown, you
should not become pregnant or father a baby while on this study. An effective method to
avoid pregnancy should be used while you are on study treatment. [Explain if this extends for
a period of time after treatment has stopped and specify how long it should continue.] Ask
the study doctor about counseling and more information about preventing pregnancy. You
should not breastfeed your baby while on this study [explain if this is only while taking the
experimental treatment or extends for a period of time after treatment has stopped and
specify how long] because it is possible the drugs used in this study may be present in your

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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breast milk. [Include a statement about possible sterility when appropriate (e.g., “Some of
the drugs used in the study may make you unable to have children in the future. Your study
doctor will discuss this with you.”]. If you (or your partner) become pregnant while you are
on this study, you should notify your study doctor.

Genetic Risks

Insert if applicable. Disclose other genetic risks as applicable to the study.

In addition to the risks of physical harms outlined in this consent form, there are also
possible non-physical risks associated with taking part in this study. For example, disclosure
of genetic or tissue marker research data could result in discrimination by employers or
insurance providers toward you or your biological (blood) relatives. The chance that research
data would be released is estimated to be small.

11. What are the potential benefits of participating?

State that the participant may not benefit from being in the study.
Include relevant information about the nature of the potential benefits
(how important are these benefits?) and the likelihood of these benefits
occurring.
In research projects where there may be anticipated benefits to society
or to a specific group, these potential benefits must be explained in a
separate paragraph so as not to confuse potential benefits to others
with potential benefits to the research participant.
Clarify – in addition – whether or not the investigators can provide the
participant with their results from certain tests that would not
otherwise be done if they were not participating in the study, which
might be construed as a benefit.

Recommended Text

No one knows whether or not you will benefit from this study. There may or
may not be direct benefits to you from taking part in this study.

We hope that the information learned from this study can be used in the
future to benefit other people with a similar disease.

12. What are the alternatives to the study treatment?

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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Describe, if applicable, any alternatives (i.e. other standard

treatments) to the treatment that participants would receive in the
study.
State if there are no such alternative therapies available.
Where applicable, palliative or best supportive care should be included
as an alternative (see recommended wording below).
Describe alternative therapies, if they are available.
Recommend in the consent form that the participant discusses the
alternative therapies with the study doctor or their personal physician
before deciding whether or not to join this study.
Ensure that the participant understands clearly what treatment they
may receive should they not participate in the study.

Recommended Text

If you choose not to participate in this study or to withdraw at a later date, the
following treatment options may be available to you:
 [Insert]

If applicable, include in the list of alternatives:

 Palliative Care or Best Supportive Care (BSC). This type of care helps
reduce pain, tiredness, appetite problems and other problems caused
by the disease. It does not treat the disease directly, but instead tries
to improve how you feel. Best Supportive Care tries to keep you as
active and comfortable as possible.

You can discuss these options with your doctor before deciding whether or
not to participate in this research project.

13. What if new information becomes available that may affect my decision
to participate?

Insert required text if applicable.

If you choose to enter this study and at a later date a more effective treatment becomes
available, it will be discussed with you. You will also be advised of any new information that
becomes available that may affect your willingness to remain in this study.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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14. What happens if I decide to withdraw my consent to participate?

Indicate that the participant may withdraw at any time without giving
reasons, including withdrawal from optional study components.
Participants cannot be required to submit a request for withdrawal in
writing.
Include the following when applicable:
Explain that participants have the option to withdraw from treatment but
remain in the study for follow-up purposes. Describe what this will
involve.
Explain that participants may remain in any optional studies.
Explain that examinations (e.g. physical, blood pressure, blood tests) may
be recommended for or requested of the participant if they decide to
withdraw from the study and that these would occur after the participant
has been released from the study; explain why these examinations may be
recommended or requested.
For double-blind studies, explain whether participants will be able to find
out what treatment they were receiving.
Disclose if it will not be possible to undo the research-related intervention
(e.g., somatic cell gene transfer, implantation of medical device [e.g.
stent]). However, the participant may be able to withdraw from
participation in the research (e.g. the ongoing evaluation) even though the
procedures already performed cannot be undone.
Explain what will happen to any data collected up to the point of the participant’s
withdrawal from the study. For studies that are regulated by Health Canada or the US
FDA, include the statement that such data will be retained and cannot be withdrawn.
For studies not regulated by Health Canada or US FDA, the investigator must outline
the factors that would lead to the participant’s request to withdraw their data being
denied.
Remove text in square brackets [ ] if biological samples (e.g., blood,
tissue, etc.) are not being collected.

For research that is regulated by Health Canada or US FDA: Amended July 2014

Recommended Text

You may withdraw from this study at any time without giving reasons. If you choose to enter
the study and then decide to withdraw at a later time, all information about you collected up
to the point of your withdrawal [including, where applicable, information obtained from your
biological samples] will be retained for analysis in order to protect the integrity of the

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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research, which may benefit future research participants and patients. However, no further
information will be collected.

[If samples have been collected before you withdraw, they will be destroyed or returned to
the facility from which they were obtained. There may be exceptions where the samples will
not be able to be withdrawn for example where the sample is no longer identifiable
(meaning it cannot be linked in any way back to your identity).] If your participation in this
study includes enrolling in any optional studies or long term follow-up, you will be asked
whether you wish to withdraw from these as well.

For research NOT regulated by Health Canada or US FDA: Amended July 2014

Recommended Text

You may withdraw from this study at any time without giving reasons. If you choose to enter
the study and then decide to withdraw at a later time, you have the right to request the
withdrawal of your information [and/or samples] collected during the study. This request will
be respected to the extent possible. Please note however that there may be exceptions
where the data [and/or samples] will not be able to be withdrawn for example where the
data [and/or sample] is no longer identifiable (meaning it cannot be linked in any way back to
your identity) or where the data has been merged with other data. If you would like to
request the withdrawal of your data [and/or samples], please let your study doctor know. If
your participation in this study includes enrolling in any optional studies, or long term follow-
up, you will be asked whether you wish to withdraw from these as well.

15. Can I be asked to leave the study?

Describe under what circumstances the study investigator would take

the participant off the study, e.g. the study may be stopped by the
sponsor or regulatory agency if knowledge of any unexpected or
unexplained serious adverse events that affect participant safety
become known.
Include any specific instructions to the participant regarding what they
need to do should they be withdrawn from the study.

Recommended Text

If you are not able to follow the requirements of the study or for any other
reason, the study doctor may withdraw you from the study and will arrange
for your care to continue. On receiving new information about the treatment,

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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your research doctor might consider it to be in your best interests to withdraw

you from the study without your consent if they judge that it would be better
for your health. If you are asked to leave the study, the reasons for this will be
explained to you and you will have the opportunity to ask questions about this
decision.

16. How will my taking part in this study be kept confidential?

Procedures for coding participant information that are different from

the required wording below (e.g., use of participants’ initials, PHN,
etc.), and any related consent wording changes, will need to be
explained and justified to the REB on the application.
If there is planned disclosure of personal identifiers (e.g. names, date
of birth, or initials) outside the local study site, or if such personal
identifiers are used on study documents or any research-related
information or are part of the unique identifier, this must be justified to
the REB on the application and, if permitted, the required wording
below must be amended as necessary.
Placement of any research data or results in the participant’s health
records must be disclosed to participants, and justified to the REB on
the application.

Your confidentiality will be respected. However, research records and health

or other source records identifying you may be inspected in the presence of
the Investigator or his or her designate by representatives of [insert here, if
relevant, the name of the sponsoring company or cooperative group
conducting the study,] Health Canada, [insert here, if relevant, the U.S. Food
and Drug Administration,] and [insert name of your REB] for the purpose of
monitoring the research. No information or records that disclose your identity
will be published without your consent, nor will any information or records
that disclose your identity be removed or released without your consent
unless required by law.

You will be assigned a unique study number as a participant in this study. This
number will not include any personal information that could identify you (e.g.,
it will not include your Personal Health Number, SIN, or your initials, etc.).
Only this number will be used on any research-related information collected
about you during the course of this study, so that your identity will be kept
confidential. Information that contains your identity will remain only with the
Principal Investigator and/or designate. The list that matches your name to the
unique study number that is used on your research-related information will
not be removed or released without your consent unless required by law.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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Your rights to privacy are legally protected by federal and provincial laws that
require safeguards to ensure that your privacy is respected. You also have the
legal right of access to the information about you that has been provided to
the sponsor and, if need be, an opportunity to correct any errors in this
information. Further details about these laws are available on request to your
study doctor.

If planned disclosure of personal identifiers (e.g. birth date) is

approved by the REB, amend the details in the required wording above:

Your [insert personal identifier/s] will also be provided if requested by the

sponsor or responsible regulatory agency.

US FDA Regulated Study

For US FDA-regulated studies only, include the following wording in
separate paragraphs. The first paragraph is mandatory US FDA
wording and cannot be amended.

A description of this clinical trial will be available on http://www.ClinicalTrials.gov, as required

by U.S. Law. This Web site will not include information that can identify you. At most, the
Web site will include a summary of the results. You can search this Web site at any time.

Recommended Text

Because this study also falls under U.S. regulation, in the event of certain types of
investigations of the study the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) may need to copy
and take away records that contain your personal information. By signing this consent form
you are agreeing to this. In the event that this occurs, the study doctor will attempt to notify
you. You should be aware that privacy protections of personal information may differ in other
countries. Any study related data (or samples) sent outside of Canadian borders may increase
the risk of disclosure of information because the laws in those countries dealing with
protection of personal information (for example the Patriot Act in the United States) may not
be as strict as in Canada.

If data is being transferred out of Canada

Include the following information if data is being transferred out of
Canada.
1. The participant information that will be sent outside of Canada.
2. A description of the coding of the data, if different from the
coding described elsewhere in the consent form.
3. To whom the information will be sent (e.g. individuals,
organizations, regulatory agencies).

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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4. Where the information will be sent (e.g. USA, UK, Australia).

Clarify whether data and/or samples will be sent outside of Canada,
and include the following wording:

Any study related data [and/or samples], sent outside of Canadian borders may increase the
risk of disclosure of information because the laws in those countries, [insert (for e.g.) the
Patriot Act in the United States] dealing with protection of information may not be as strict as
in Canada. However, all study related data [and/or samples], that might be transferred
outside of Canada will be coded (this means it will not contain your name or personal
identifying information) before leaving the study site. By signing this consent form, you are
consenting to the transfer of your information [and/or samples], to organizations located
outside of Canada.
 [Insert organization/s]


Reportable Diseases
Disclose to participants if positive tests for communicable diseases are
reportable to provincial health authorities (e.g. hepatitis B or C,
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), West Nile virus, etc.).
Insert examples of any foreseeable instances where such reporting of
communicable diseases may be required.
See BCCDC List of Reportable Diseases

Your personal information or information that could identify you will not be
revealed without your express consent unless required by law. If facts become
known to the researchers which must be reported by law to public health
authorities or legal authorities, then your personal information will be
provided to the appropriate agency or authority.
 [Insert example/s]


Primary Care Physician(s)/Specialist(s) Notification

For BCCA REB and VIHA REB insert a statement in the consent that
as a part of the study requirements the investigator will notify the
participant’s GP of the participant’s participation in the study.

Your family physician will be notified of your participation in the study so that
your study doctor and your family doctor can provide proper medical care.

For all other REBs, include the following (optional) notification section.
This component cannot be used for BCCA REB or VIHA REB

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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Recommended Text

Please indicate, by checking the applicable box, whether you want us to notify
your primary care physician(s) or specialist(s) of your participation in this
study. This is not a consent to release medical information.
 Yes, I want the study investigator to advise my primary care physician(s) or specialist(s) of
my participation in this study. My primary care physician(s) and/or specialist(s) name(s)
is/are:

The name of the medical clinic I attend is:

Participant Initials:
 No, I do not want the study investigator to advise my primary care physician(s) or
specialist(s) of my participation in this study.

Participant Initials:
 I do not have a primary care physician or specialist.

Participant Initials:
 The study investigator is my primary care physician/specialist.

Participant Initials:

I understand that if I choose not to advise my primary care physician(s) or specialist(s) of my

participation in this study, there may be potential medical consequences which may affect
my comprehensive medical care or treatment. I understand that the study investigator may
not be responsible for these consequences.
You may wish to discuss the consequences of your decision with the study staff.

Disclosure of Race/Ethnicity
If applicable, collection of data on demographic features such as
race/ethnicity, birthplace, gender, and sexual orientation must be
justified in the ethics application and the reason for the collection
explained to participants and that providing this information is
voluntary. (Note that the UBC Behavioural REB guidance notes may be
helpful; see Sections 5.2 and 6.3.)

Recommended Text

Studies involving humans now routinely collect information on race and ethnic origin as well
as other characteristics of individuals because these characteristics may influence how
people respond to different medications. Providing information on your race or ethnic origin
is voluntary.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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17. What happens if something goes wrong?

If the person signing consent is doing so on behalf of a participant who

lacks capacity add, “or the participant’s” after “any of your.”
The study sponsor must be prepared to cover the cost of medical
treatment required for illness or injury as a result of the research if
patient is uninsured.
The name of the Sponsor is not necessary for non-regulated studies or
unfunded studies.
For the definition of “Sponsor” refer to ICH Good Clinical Practice Guidelines (ICH
GCPs), article 1.53.

By signing this form, you do not give up any of your legal rights and you do not release the
study doctor, participating institutions, or anyone else from their legal and professional
duties. If you become ill or physically injured as a result of participation in this study, medical
treatment will be provided at no additional cost to you. The costs of your medical treatment
will be paid by your provincial medical plan and/or by the study sponsor [insert name of
sponsor].

Recommended text

In case of a serious medical event, please report to an emergency room and inform them
that you are participating in a clinical study and that the following person can then be
contacted for further information: Dr. [insert doctor’s name] at telephone number: [insert
doctor’s telephone number].

18. What will the study cost me?

When applicable, begin this section with a general statement that

research-related care and treatment will be provided at no cost to the
participant.

Recommended Text

All research-related medical care and treatment and any related tests that you will receive
during your participation in this study will be provided at no cost to you.

Reimbursement
Stipulate whether the participant will incur any personal expenses as a
result of participation.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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State whether their expenses will be reimbursed, which expenses, and

how they should claim for reimbursement.
Otherwise, provide an explicit statement that there will be no
reimbursement for study related expenses, if that is the case.
Researchers are encouraged to cover participants’ expenses such as
parking, meals, travel, supportive care medications or other incidental
costs over and above those needed for standard care they would not
otherwise have been required to purchase.

[insert details]

Remuneration
State whether the participant will be paid for their participation (e.g.
“You will not be paid for participating”).
If participants will be paid for participation, include the details of any
honoraria/incentives to be provided.
Such payments must not be weighted toward the end of the study, as an
incentive to complete participation.
State that payments will be pro-rated if the participant withdraws from
the study.

[insert details]

19. Who do I contact if I have questions about the study during my

participation?
Recommended Text

If you have any questions or desire further information about this study before or during
participation, or if you experience any adverse effects, you can contact [insert PI or his/her
representative] at (xxx) xxx-xxxx, ext. xxxx.

BCCA REB required wording

For the Head of Program contact information, include only the
telephone number of the applicable main switchboard, do not include
this person’s name or telephone extension.

In the event of a research related injury, please speak to your doctor (indicated above) or
(after hours) call the BCCA centre nearest you and ask for your study doctor or, if he or she is
not available, your usual oncologist or the oncologist on call.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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Or, you can speak to the doctor who is the principal investigator, [insert name of PI] at (xxx)
xxx-xxxx ext. xxxx.

Or, you can speak to the Head of [insert program name, e.g. the Systemic Therapy or
Radiation Therapy] Program of the BC Cancer Agency. That person can be reached at (xxx)
xxx-xxxx.

20. Who do I contact if I have any questions or concerns about my rights as a

participant?

For UBC-affiliated REBs (BCCA REB, C&W REB, PHC REB, UBC
CREB)
If you have any concerns or complaints about your rights as a research participant and/or
your experiences while participating in this study, contact the Research Participant Complaint
Line in the University of British Columbia Office of Research Ethics by e-mail at
RSIL@ors.ubc.ca or by phone at 604-822-8598 (Toll Free: 1-877-822-8598).

For FH REB
If you have any concerns about your rights as a research participant and/or your experiences
while participating in this study, contact the Fraser Health Research Ethics Board co-Chair by
calling 604-587-4681.

For IH REB
If you have any concerns about your rights as a research participant and/or your experiences
while participating in the study, we would be interested in hearing from you. Please feel free
to contact the Chair of the Interior Health Research Ethics Board at (250) 870-4602 with your
concerns.

For VIHA REB

If you have any concerns about your rights as a research participant and/or your experiences
while participating in this study, or if you wish to verify the ethical approval of this study, you
may contact Karen Medler, Research Ethics Coordinator, or Dr. Marie-Térèse Little, Chair of
the Clinical Research Ethics Board for the Vancouver Island Health Authority (250-370-8620).

21. After the study is finished

Describe any information that may be given to the participant once

their participation is concluded.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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For example, this could include whether or not the participants will be
able to continue treatment on the study drug. If not, include the
following recommended wording below.
Provide participants – where possible – with a lay summary of the
study results.
Describe when the study and/or individual results are likely to be
available and how they will be disseminated.
Inform participants, where relevant, of procedures for accessing those
results.

Recommended Text

You may not be able to receive the study treatment after your participation in the study is
completed. There are several possible reasons for this, some of which are:
 The treatment may not turn out to be effective or safe.
 The treatment may not be approved for use in Canada.
 Your caregivers may not feel it is the best option for you.
 You may decide it is too expensive and insurance coverage may not be available.
 The treatment, even if approved in Canada, may not be available free of charge.

Future Contact
If researchers wish to contact participants later to participate in other
studies, include this request with an appropriate yes/no tick box.
Researchers are encouraged to include this request if there is any
chance that they may wish to ask participants to participate in future
studies.

22. Signatures
This section of the consent form should start on a new page and
include the full study title.
The participant is signing the form to indicate that he/she has read,
understood and appreciates the information concerning the study. As
such, use the first person pronoun (“I”) for this section.
Include a checklist of the issues most critical to making an informed
decision.
Required and suggested checklist items appear below.
Ensure that the checklist fits on the page with the signatures of the
participants. The signatures should never be on a page by themselves.
Provide a copy of the signed and dated consent form to the participant.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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Where third party consent is being obtained and participants have

capacity to assent/dissent: refer to the local REB guidance notes (links
in Appendix I) for clarification of assent policies and guidelines.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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[Insert full study title]

Participant Consent
My signature on this consent form means:
 I have read and understood the information in this consent form.
 I have had enough time to think about the information provided.
 I have been able to ask for advice if needed.
 I have been able to ask questions and have had satisfactory responses to my
questions.
 I understand that all of the information collected will be kept confidential and that the
results will only be used for scientific purposes.
 I understand that my participation in this study is voluntary.
 I understand that I am completely free at any time to refuse to participate or to
withdraw from this study at any time, and that this will not change the quality of care
that I receive.
 I authorize access to my health records [insert if applicable and samples] as described
in this consent form.
 I understand that I am not waiving any of my legal rights as a result of signing this
consent form.
 I understand that there is no guarantee that this study will provide any benefits to
me.
 [Insert any other research specific clauses that may be important to reiterate.]

Required wording where participants who lack capacity are capable of

assent.

The parent(s)/guardian(s)/substitute decision-maker (legally authorized representative) and

the investigator are satisfied that the information contained in this consent form was
explained to the child/participant to the extent that he/she is able to understand it, that all
questions have been answered, and that the child/participant assents to participating in the
research.

I will receive a signed copy of this consent form for my own records.

I consent to participate in this study.

“Participant’s Signature” should be replaced with “Participant’s or

Substitute Decision-maker’s Signature” if third party consent may be
obtained from a legally authorized representative.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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Participant’s Signature Printed name Date

Signature of Person Printed name Study Role Date

Obtaining Consent

Where applicable include the following elements:

If this consent process has been done in a language other than that on this written form, with
the assistance of an interpreter/translator, indicate:

Language: ____________________

Was the participant assisted during the consent process in one of ways listed below?

 Yes  No [Note: For typical situations where the person conducting the consent
discussion simply reads the consent with the participant to ensure that informed consent is
properly obtained, check “no”.]

If yes, please check the relevant box and complete the signature space below:

 The consent form was read to the participant, and the person signing below attests
that the study was accurately explained to, and apparently understood by, the participant
(please check if participant is unable to read ).

 The person signing below acted as an interpreter/translator for the participant, during
the consent process (please check if an interpreter/translator assisted during the consent
process).

Signature of Person Assisting Printed Name Date

in the Consent Discussion

Witness Signature

Optional, except where an oral consent is necessary such as when the

participant is illiterate or blind, or disabled, or for cultural reasons so
that they either cannot or will not sign the consent form. In such
circumstances, the witness must be independent of the Principal
Investigator or designate. For blind or illiterate participants, an REB

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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approved summary of what is to be said to the participant or his or her

authorized representative must be signed by both the person providing the
consent and the witness. In such circumstances, the signature of the
witness is intended to attest to the fact, and to state, that what is included
in the summary was actually said to the participant or legally authorized
representative.

Investigator Signature

Some REBs may require an investigator signature for all consent forms.
Check local REB requirements. As well, a signatory line for “investigator
signature” (example below) must be added if required by the sponsor, but
this may not replace the line for the “person obtaining consent” if this is a
different person:

Investigator Signature Printed name Date

My signature above signifies that the study has been reviewed with the study participant by
me and/or by my delegated staff. My signature may have been added at a later date, as I may
not have been present at the time the participant’s signature was obtained.

Description: [insert 2 to 3 word description of the study]

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Appendix I
Links to REB sites providing guidance notes, policies, and/or forms for UBC-affiliated, SFU,
and BC regional health authority REBs/RRC

UBC-affiliated Clinical REBs

BC Cancer Agency REB (BCCA REB)
Children’s & Women’s REB (C&W REB)
Providence Health Care REB (PHC REB)
Clinical REB (CREB)

Simon Fraser University ORE and REB (SFU ORE and REB)

Fraser Health REB (FH REB)

Interior Health REB (IH REB)

Northern Health Research Review Committee (NH RRC)

Vancouver Island Health Authority REB (VIHA REB)

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BC Clinical Consent Form Template – October 2015

Appendix II
General style and formatting guidelines for consent forms

1. Consent forms should be written at a Grade 7 level of understanding.

In Microsoft Word, you can display the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level Score by clicking on
“Spelling and Grammar” in your tool bar. If the option to check for readability statistics is
not viewable, ensure it is enabled. In Word 2013: Click the File tab, and then click
Options. Click Proofing. Ensure “ Show readability statistics” is selected.
2. Type size: no smaller than the type on this page (12 point).
3. Improve readability by using headings, short paragraphs, and spaces between
paragraphs.
4. Use plain language; explain medical terms and jargon. Use non-scientific terminology.
For assistance with finding lay language substitutes, refer to the Canadian Cancer Society
Glossary of Terms: http://info.cancer.ca/glossary/
5. Acronyms should be avoided. If they must be used, they should be written out the first
time they appear, e.g., Peculiar Acronym for General Use (PAGU).
6. Number the pages in the following manner: “1 of 3”, “2 of 3”, “3 of 3,” etc.
7. Include a footer ON EACH PAGE with the version number and date. Also include a brief
reference to the study such as the protocol number or REB number or nickname of the
study.
8. All information required by the participant must be included in the informed consent
form, with the exception of ancillary drug information sheets, if applicable.
9. The consent form submitted for review should be in its final form and on letterhead (as it
will be seen by the participant).
10. Spelling, grammar and formatting must be corrected before submission to the REB.
11. Use second person pronouns for the participant information part of the consent form
(you/your). Use first person pronoun (“I”) only for the final Participant Consent portion
of the form.
12. References to “doctor” should be clarified to identify who is being referred to, e.g., the
family doctor, study doctor, oncologist.

Appendices BC Clinical Research Informed Consent Form Guide and Template page 35 of 36
BC Clinical Consent Form Template – October 2015

Appendix III
General directions to those responsible for obtaining consent

1. The “person obtaining consent” must be sufficiently familiar with the study, the
disease being treated and the process of informed consent to be able to obtain
properly informed consent and, thus, will usually be the investigator or a designated
research assistant.

If a study doctor is also the treating doctor for the potential research participant, this
must be clearly stated in the application to the REB. Include an explanation of efforts
that will be made to mitigate the potential for undue influence over a potential
participant when obtaining their consent to participate. In such cases best practice
has been identified as having someone other than the study/treating doctor obtain
consent, or receive the participant’s answer regarding their final decision. This does
not preclude the study/treating doctor from providing information to the participant
or answering any of their questions. See TCPS2-Chapter 11.A: Duty of Care.

2. The investigator should independently document the obtaining of informed consent

in the medical record, noting the date, the participant’s full understanding of the risks
and benefits of enrollment and the voluntary nature of participation.

3. Translated Consent Documents: A translated consent document cannot replace the

English language version but it can serve as an additional aid in the consent process. A
translated consent document also does not replace the requirement for a
translator/interpreter to be present during the consent process and throughout the
study. The investigator should ask for the translated version to be independently
reviewed for accuracy. The final version of the translated consent document must be
submitted to the REB for approval along with a statement signed by the interpreter
confirming that the translation is accurate, stating the name and version date of the
document they translated and their qualifications. These documents may be
submitted as an amendment after the REB has approved the English version. The
participant will sign the translated consent.

4. A translator/interpreter should be a PHSA/BCCA or other such certified or qualified

translator/interpreter. They should be impartial, that is, not a relative, study team
member, or a person who might have influence over the participant. For more
information see the PHSA Provincial Language Services site.

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