In addition to the CCMO, the Netherlands has 12 accredited Medical Research Ethics Committees (MRECs) that review medical scientific research with human participants.

Most MRECs are affiliated with an institution, such as an academic medical center or a hospital. A recognized MREC determines the region for which it reviews research: its scope of work. In practice, most committees review research for all of the Netherlands.

Who reviews what?

All accredited MRECs are authorised, provided the required expertise is available, to review research within the following legislative frameworks:

  • WMO
  • IVDR
  • MDR:
    • Clinical investigation for conformity purposes (Art. 62 / 74.2): class I and non-invasive class II (a & b).

    • Clinical investigation for PMCF with invasive and burdensome procedures (Art. 74.1): all classes.

    • Clinical investigation with a different purpose (Art. 82): all classes.

Not all accredited MRECs review research within the legislative frameworks listed below. Please check the information provided for each MREC in the overview:

  • CTR*
  • MDR:**

    • Clinical investigation for conformity purposes (Art. 62 / 74.2): class III and invasive class II (a & b).

  • Embryo Act***

Accredited MRECs

European Network of Research Ethics Committees

Information about the national Research Ethics Committees (RECs) of all European member states can be found on the website of the European Network of Research Ethics Committees (EUREC).

Annual report

In its annual reports, the CCMO provides an overview of all research assessed in the Netherlands by recognized MRECs and the CCMO.