October 18, 2024
The purpose of this page is to provide guidance to researchers considering using texting as a form of communication with study subjects/patients. Please note that the content of this page may change frequently and without notice.
Please note:
1) ALL text content MUST be IRB approved before use with study subjects.
2) Study subject must provide consent either in writing or verbally to communicate via text message.
3) Subject approval must be documented in the study file.
4) The detailed plan for text message communication must be clearly described in the protocol summary.
Privacy and Security Policy
The Privacy Office and Information Security have published a policy and guidelines for texting with patients/study subjects. The IRB provides recommendations for consent language and requires that all study subjects consent to text messaging before enrolling in a study. The policy, texting and consent guidelines can be found here:
Mass General Brigham Policy on texting with patients/study subjects
Texting Platforms
There is not currently available, a list of texting platforms that can be used without a review. ALL texting use cases require IRB and RISO review regardless of the technology. Based on the proposed use/implementation, the texting platform may also require a full cybersecurity risk assessment.
What is the REDCap+Twilio Module for texting?
- To learn more about how REDCap+Twillio can be used in a study, navigate to HOW TO: REDCap + Twilio