The norms regarding acceptable levels of payment include:
- Reimbursement for transportation and parking, documented by receipts.
- Payment as an incentive for participation, for instance to compensate for time away from work or other activities. Incentive payments are examined for any undue influence they may have on subjects, such as those who may feel compelled to participate in research as a result of their financial situation.
In most cases, reimbursement is more acceptable pro-rated. Lump sums, given only upon completion of the entire research project, are generally not acceptable by the IRBMED; and investigators will be asked to revise lump-sum payments so as to avoid compromising a participant's decision to withdraw prior to the study end.
