A clinical research study is conducted by qualified doctors to evaluate a new investigational treatment for a certain illness. Before any investigational treatment is given to subjects in a clinical research study, it is researched in a laboratory. Clinical research studies provide a way to test experimental treatments. Every widespread treatment today has been proven safe and effective in a clinical trial
Each study is designed for a particular group of people, whose ability to participate in the trial is based on a detailed set of criteria. These criteria include age, health, disease history, and lifestyle factors. Adults with a clean bill of health may be subject in ‘healthy volunteer’ trials, while people with existing medical conditions may be subjects for ‘patient’ trials.
When enrolling in a study, Volunteers will be counseled with regards to the requirements and expectations related to a specific study, including the benefits and risks of study participation. Our staff maintains relationships with community-based physicians and local health advocacy organizations and we often provide our patients with support information, educational material and referral services.
If you wish to participate in a study, you will be greeted by a clinical research coordinator who will ask you a series of questions regarding the condition of your health. All of our clinical research coordinators are healthcare professionals trained in clinical research. If you qualify to participate in a currently enrolling study based on the information you provide, the clinical research coordinator will schedule an appointment for you to be evaluated by a doctor at a time convenient for you. If you do not qualify for a certain study, we may contact you regarding future clinical research studies.
In most studies, study-related medical examinations, investigational medications and laboratory tests as listed in the clinical study plan, are provided at no cost to you as long as you are a research study participant. Medical insurance is not necessary, and some studies offer compensation for participation. Participation in a clinical study is completely voluntary, and receiving compensation does not affect your ability to leave the study at any time.