What is a primary difference between ICH guidelines and FDA regulations regarding investigator's responsibilities?

The primary difference regarding investigator responsibilities between ICH guidelines and FDA regulations is that the FDA requires a signed statement from the investigator, affirming their commitment and understanding of their roles and responsibilities in conducting the clinical trial. This signed statement is a formal acknowledgment that the investigator agrees to comply with the study protocol and regulatory requirements, ensuring accountability and clarity in their responsibilities.

In contrast, ICH guidelines focus on the ethical and scientific quality of trials without specifically requiring such a signed statement from the investigator. While ICH does emphasize the importance of investigator responsibilities and compliance, it does so through more general principles rather than specific documentation requirements. This distinction highlights how regulatory frameworks can approach investigator accountability differently.

Understanding this difference is vital for clinical researchers to navigate the responsibilities in various regulatory environments effectively and ensure compliance with both sets of guidelines as appropriate.