Frequently Asked Questions

What is a clinical trial?

New medications and devices used to treat and control disease are being constantly discovered. Before these medications and devices can be prescribed by doctors for use in patients they need to be tested for safety and efficacy. Clinical trials are medical studies set up for this purpose.

Why do people participate in clinical trials?

People volunteer to participate for a variety of reasons. Some are looking for an alternative means of treatment, not yet available to the general public, to address a specific disorder or illness. Others find satisfaction in being a part of the development of new medications and treatment options. Still others view participation in a clinical trial as a service to science, their community, and mankind.

What are the risks and benefits in participating in a clinical trial?

No medical treatment is without some risk. Each clinical trial is different and all associated risks and benefits will be explained before entering any study. Participants need to understand those risks before giving consent to enter the study. Participants may withdraw from a study at any time.

Benefits vary from study to study and will be explained to you before participating. Some possible benefits include:

• access to medication or device not yet available to the general public
• study drug or use of study device free of charge
• doctor visits, exams, and lab work at no cost to you

Can I participate in a clinical trial?

All clinical trials have specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. You will be asked a series of questions and your medical history and any laboratory work will be reviewed to determine whether you may be a candidate for a particular clinical trial.

What happens during a clinical trial?

Each trial is different and our research staff will cover the nature of the study, the duration, the number of visits required, whether lab work is necessary, and any other information unique to the study and important for you to know before you enroll.