Table 3 Recommendations and Considerations for Addressing Incidental and Reportable Findings in Pediatric Research
Area. | Recommendation |
|---|---|
Funding agencies | Allocate fund use when an incidental finding is discovered to assist in provision of follow-up care, particularly among underserved populations that lack access to specialty care and/or insurance. |
Scientific Organizations | Establish best practices and scientific statements to guide pediatric researchers who encounter incidental findings during investigations |
Informed Consent | Clearly explain the nondiagnostic intent of the MRI as well as the possibility of discovering unrelated, unintended but potentially clinically relevant findings. |
Study design | Track the impact of incidental finding communication to the participant and their family, including additional clinical visits and diagnostic tests, to better assess the financial and time-related costs and potential health benefits. |
Methodology | Develop a process for how incidental findings will be identified and communicated among members of the research team as well as to families and primary care providers. |