Biobank Referral Process

Patients are initially identified by the direct healthcare team responsible for their care, who can then discuss the option of donation of specimens to the biobank. 

When specimens arrive into the SickKids Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences Biobank, they are de-identified and given a unique reference number, protecting the privacy of the donor.  Only relevant clinical information is released to researchers. 

Withdrawing Consent

Patients who donate tissue samples to the Biobank are free to withdraw their consent at any time, without giving a reason. Withdrawal of consent will not affect their clinical care or legal rights in any way. Withdrawal of consent can be arranged by contacting SickKids Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences Biobank. There is no time limit associated with withdrawal of consent and donors are free to withdraw their consent at any time. If consent is withdrawn, the Biobank will arrange for the appropriate disposal, where possible, of any samples still remaining. Clinical data associated to the participant will also be removed from the Biobank database.

Thank You!

We are very grateful to all those who have donated specimens to the SickKids Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences Biobank, as these donations help us learn more about vision and eye health.