Human tissue for research

Using human tissue samples can be a vital part of ground-breaking research but all researchers need to be aware of and adhere to Australian ethical and legal constraints governing how samples held by our laboratories can be used. The primary purpose of taking human tissue samples within NSWHP is to inform clinical care. However, with patient consent, this can also support ethically-approved health and medical research

Rules of consent

It is important for all researchers to know when patient consent is required for the use of human tissue specimens for reasons outside of primary clinical care. The Human Tissue Act 1983 outlines consent requirements for research. The use or transfer of genetic samples or patient data associated with other types of tissue must comply with the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002.

Partner with us

If you’re a researcher or research institution seeking access to pathology research services, visit our Research Services page.