Some Indigenous community research projects can meet the criteria for minimal risk and be evaluated in delegated review.

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Sometimes
• D. Not applicable

Answer: (A)

Delegated review can apply to research when the risk to participants is minimal. In TCPS2, minimal risk means the potential harm or discomfort is no greater than what people encounter in daily life or routine medical care, and the study can be reviewed by a chair or designated reviewer (or a small subcommittee) rather than the full ethics board. Some Indigenous community research projects can fit this situation because they are designed to be low risk—for example, involving surveys or interviews on non-sensitive topics with proper informed consent and strong privacy protections. When the study also respects culturally safe practices and data governance expectations (such as community engagement and appropriate stewardship of data), it can be assessed through delegated review instead of the full committee. So, it is possible for these projects to meet minimal-risk criteria and be evaluated via delegated review.