In research involving children, what is the significance of the term "expedited review"?

The significance of "expedited review" in research involving children lies in its ability to streamline the approval process for certain studies. This mechanism is designed to facilitate quicker review times while still ensuring that ethical standards and participant protections are upheld. Expedited review is applicable to research that involves minimal risk to child participants or fits specific categories defined by regulatory guidelines. By allowing for a faster review under these circumstances, researchers can commence studies that may provide valuable insights into pediatric health and development without the lengthy delay that might come with a full review process.

This expedited approach is particularly beneficial in scenarios where timely access to research findings could impact the well-being of children or when the study's interventions may lead to direct positive outcomes. It balances the need for compliance with ethical considerations and the urgency often associated with research involving children.