The revised common rule as a facilitator of radiology research

OBJECTIVE. Radiology research is often retrospective. Although risk of harm to patients is minimal, retrospective data reviews have often required expedited review by institutional review boards under the Federal Policy for the Protection of Human Subjects, also referred to as the “Common Rule.” In 2019, revisions to the Common Rule increased the number of studies that meet the criteria for exempt status. CONCLUSION. Changes to the Common Rule increase the types of studies eligible for exempt review. This has the potential to decrease delays for radiologists performing minimal risk research.