Frequently Asked Questions about Sponsored Projects Review Process (SPRP)

1. What is the Sponsored Projects Review Process (SPRP)?

The SPRP is the name we use to refer to the Research Billing Compliance Program. Sponsored Projects Administration (SPA) was created to ensure that Allina is billing research services appropriately to third party payers and that research only (non-billable) items and services are billed to the research site. Allina, through the SPRP, must also ensure it is being paid appropriately for the services provided and have a written agreement around this work.


2. Does my project require SPA Review?

If the research project involves using Allina facilities either for routine care or research only items and services, then the study must comply with the Sponsored Projects Review Process.


3. What is involved with submitting a project to SPA?

Studies must be submitted through our online submission system, eProtocol. For instructions on submission to SPA, see the SPA eProtocol User Guide. To understand what is involved in the SPA Review process see the Sponsored Projects Review Process (SPRP) Guide. If your study involves any billing of services to insurance or a third-party, the site must also be familiar with the SPA Research Billing Compliance Guide.


4. How long does the review process take?

Review and project approval or denial can take approximately 1 week from submission of all materials and written agreements.


5. If my study is using a non-allina IRB, do I still need to submit to SPA?

The SPA process is separate from the IRB, so you need to submit to SPA if your project meets the criteria outlined here.


6. Is there training available on the Sponsored Projects Review Process?

The SPRP Guide materials are available on the SPA website or you can contact SPA to schedule individual or group training.


7. I submitted a project to the IRB, is that the same as SPA?

No, the IRB and SPA are separate functions with different accountabilities. All projects meeting the definition of research must be approved by an IRB. Only projects meeting the SPA requirements must be approved by SPA. The study may not start at Allina unless it has been approved by both IRB and SPA, if applicable.

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Allina Sponsored Projects Administration

Mailing address:
Mail Route 10105
PO Box 43
Minneapolis, MN 55440-0043

Phone: 612-262-4926
Fax: 612-262-4953

Office location:
Allina Commons at Midtown Exchange
Mail Route 10105
2925 Chicago Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55407-1321