Ethics
The Ethics Working Group of Research Autopsy Procurement Society (RAPS) is dedicated to upholding the highest ethical standards in the pursuit of scientific advancements involving research conducted at the end of life (EOL).
Our mission is to ensure that rapid research autopsy programs are conducted with respect, dignity, integrity, and compassion for participants and their loved ones.
We strive to:
Promote Ethical Practices: Advocate for the ethical procurement and use of post-mortem tissues in research, ensuring compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and guidelines.
Ensure Informed Consent: Develop and implement robust informed consent processes that respect the autonomy and wishes of participants and their loved ones.
Safeguard Dignity and Respect: Uphold the dignity of participants by maintaining respectful practices throughout follow-up at the EOL, research autopsy, tissue procurement and tissue handling processes.
Foster Transparency and Trust: Build and maintain trust with the community by promoting transparency in our practices and clearly communicating the goals, benefits, and risks of rapid research autopsy programs.
Promote Equity and Inclusion: Ensure equitable access to participation in rapid research autopsy programs and address any disparities that may exist in the implementation of these programs.
Advance Scientific Knowledge: Support the ethical advancement of scientific knowledge and medical breakthroughs with the use of rapid research autopsy methodologies, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes of affected populations.
Provide Ethical Guidance and Oversight: Offer ethical guidance and oversight to researchers and institutions involved in rapid research autopsy programs, ensuring ongoing compliance and ethical integrity.
Engage with Stakeholders: Collaborate with patients, loved ones, healthcare providers, researchers, and policymakers to align the objectives and practices of rapid research autopsy programs with the values and needs of affected constituent groups.