We have compiled a list of resources for researchers to help navigate through the complex process of research operational and ethics approvals. Each link will direct you to the website that contains detailed information on the topic. Please direct all questions and inquiries to the relevant department within the respective Health Authority. Our Cluster is currently working closely with the provincial and regional Health Authorities to put together more resources and develop streamlined pathways to support researchers in better obtaining health research data.
*updated October 2022 - DASH has put together the complete process maps of the operational and ethics approval pathways for each health authority, in partnership with the involved teams under each organization. These maps will inform researchers of the different steps involved in their application review. However, please note that review processes are subject to refinements - while using our maps as guides, please consult with each health authority for the most up-to-date processes.
Provincial Health Services
- PHSA Complete Process Map (DASH)
- Approvals at a Glance
- Data Access, Security and Privacy
- Research Data Access Request Form
Interior Health
- IH Complete Process Map (Research Algorithm)
- Start Your Research Study
- Clinical Research
- Research Department
- Research Ethics Review
Island Health
- VIHA Complete Process Map (DASH)
- Research & Capacity Building
- Conduct Research with Island Health
- Operational Review & Institutional Approval
- Collect and Manage Data
- Research Privacy Consultations
- Research Ethics & Compliance Office
Fraser Health
- FH Complete Process Map (DASH)
- ROMEO Research Portal: One-stop submission portal for Fraser Health’s Research Ethics Board (FHREB), Research Privacy Review, Awards and Finance
- Process and Approvals Overview
- Fees for Ethical Reviews
- Harmonized Research Ethics Process and Institutional Approvals
- Clinical Research Support
- Research Study Database
- Research Forms, Guidance Notes and Templates
- Research Resources
- Research Support Contact
Northern Health
- NH Complete Process Map (DASH)
- Research Review Committee
- Research Process Map
- Application for Operational Approval for Research
- Application for Operational Approval for Research Studies
- Information Sharing Agreement (ISA) Process Overview
- Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) Process Overview
Vancouver Coastal Health
- VCH Complete Process Map (DASH)
- Operational Approval Overview
- Research Process Map: VCH Operational Approval & UBC Ethics
Providence Health
- PHC Complete Process Map (DASH)
- Ethics Approval Overview
- Ethics Approval - Before You Apply
- Research Ethics Board Meeting Dates and Submission Deadlines
- Institutional Approval Overview
- Resources
First Nations Health
- FNHA Complete Process Map (DASH)
- Research & Knowledge Exchange
- Data Governance
- FNHA Research Request Form 2022
*For more information and resources on engaging Indigenous communities in research, please visit our Engaging with Indigenous Communities page.
Population Data BC
- BC Data Scout: Data query service intended to provide cohort information in the form of highly aggregated, approximate results to researchers who are planning a study using Ministry of Health Data
- Data Set Listings
- Data Access Overview
- Data Acess Request Management
Health Research BC