Instructions for Submitting a Request to the Ethical Review and Accountability Framework (ERAF)
Step 1: Payment of Nominal Fee
Submitters are required to make a non-refundable payment of 50 USD to initiate the ethical review process. This fee is designed to be affordable and accessible. It ensures that your case will be reviewed with the attention and seriousness it warrants. Upon payment, you will receive a payment transaction ID, which will be necessary for completing the subsequent steps.
The revenue from our services is allocated to providing support for individuals affected by Lyme disease globally, as well as promoting education and awareness within communities about the infection.
Step 2: Gathering Required Information
After making the payment, the submitter must download and complete the Request Form, providing the following information:
- Submitter's Full Name: Your legal name as the individual raising the concern.
- Name of the Offending Party: The name of the person(s) or organization(s) that have acted unethically towards you.
- Detailed Description of the Incident: Provide a comprehensive account of the events that led to the ethical concern. Include all relevant details to clearly explain your situation.
- Supporting Evidence: Describe the evidence you have, such as witness testimonies, documents, or other materials that corroborate your account.
- Submitter's Email Address: The email address where you would like to receive all communications regarding your hearing.
- Payment Transaction ID Number: The ID number from your payment transaction, which verifies that the hearing fee has been paid.
Step 3: Declaration Form
Alongside the hearing form, the submitter must download, complete, and sign a declaration confirming the accuracy and truthfulness of the information provided. This declaration must be printed, signed, and then scanned.
Note: If you do not have easy access to a printer and scanner, you may handwrite the declaration on paper, sign it, and take a clear photograph of it. The photo must be of sufficient quality to ensure that the text is fully readable and the handwriting is easily understood.
Step 4: Submission
Once both the hearing form and the declaration are completed, attach them to an email and send it to contacts@lymecare.org . Ensure that the form is submitted as a .doc file, and the declaration as a scanned document or clear photograph.
Step 5: Confirmation and Review
Upon receipt of your submission, ERAF will confirm via email that your hearing has been initiated. You will be informed when the review process begins.
Step 6: Final Decision
After your hearing has been thoroughly reviewed, you will receive an official document outlining the final decision, sent directly to your email.
Please Note: There is no fixed time period for the submission form and declarations to be processed, nor for the overall case to be reviewed and finalized. This is due to the involvement of multiple individuals in the thorough and careful examination of each case. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to ensure a fair and comprehensive review.
Terms and Conditions for the Service
Terms and Conditions for the Ethical Review and Accountability Framework (ERAF) Service
1. Service Description
The ERAF service provided by LymeCare Alliance offers an educational and ethical review service, where individuals can submit requests for the evaluation of ethical concerns related to Lyme disease treatment, support, or related matters. This service does not constitute legal advice or formal legal proceedings. It is intended to provide guidance and support based on the ethical standards set forth by LymeCare Alliance.
2. Payment Terms
A non-refundable fee of 50 USD is required to initiate the Ethical Review process. Payment must be made before the review process begins, and proof of payment (Payment Transaction ID) must be submitted with the request form.
3. Submission Requirements
Submitters must provide all requested information, including detailed descriptions of the situation, supporting evidence, and any other relevant documentation. A declaration form, duly signed and dated, must also be submitted, confirming the accuracy of the information provided.
4. Confidentiality
All information submitted will be treated with strict confidentiality. However, the submitter must acknowledge that some details may be shared with members of the review committee to facilitate the evaluation process.
5. Review Process
There is no fixed timeframe for the completion of the review process. Each case is unique, and the time required may vary based on the complexity of the case and the availability of review committee members.
6. Final Decision
The final decision will be communicated via email to the submitter. The decision of the review committee is final and binding within the scope of this service. No further appeals will be entertained.
7. Limitations of Liability
LymeCare Alliance is not liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from the use of this service. The service is provided "as is" without warranties of any kind, either express or implied.
8. Acceptance of Terms
By submitting a request for ethical review, the submitter agrees to all the terms and conditions outlined above and acknowledges that they have understood and accepted the conditions under which the service is provided.
9. Age Requirement
The submitter must be at least 21 years of age to use this service. By submitting a request, the submitter affirms that they meet this age requirement.
10. Amendments
LymeCare Alliance reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions at any time. Changes will be effective immediately upon posting on the LymeCare Alliance website.