“It is digital, much easier, and educational”: Usability and Acceptability of a Digital Informed Consent Process for Biomedical Health Research from the Perspectives of Stakeholders
Informed consent is widely regarded as a foundational pillar of ethical biomedical research. It serves not only as a procedural safeguard but also as an ethical commitment to respect the autonomy, dignity, and agency of research participants. Yet, despite robust global ethical guidelines, the actual implementation of informed consent procedures in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) remains complex. In contexts marked by linguistic diversity, cultural dynamics, and systemic inequities, a disconnect persists between ethical ideals and practical realities. This study examines how digital consent tools can bridge that gap - particularly in the South African context.
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