Research protocols involving decedents do not require IRB review. However, based upon federal regulations for HIPAA at 45 CFR 46.160 and 164, a review by the Institution's Privacy Board is required.
MCW/FH IRBs also serve as the Privacy Boards. Principal investigators conducting research with decedents must submit a signed paper application to the IRB for review and determination. The Request for Waiver of Authorization application available on the Forms and Templates webpage must be accompanied by a short summary of the proposed research.
Back to Guidelines for Determining if a Proposal Needs IRB Review