research trials to our clinics. Read below to see if you would be interested in
participating in clinical trials and then click on the links on the side to read about
ongoing clinical trials and if you might qualify.
Clinical trials are research studies in which volunteers agree to try new
treatments for illnesses such as high blood pressure, diabetes, headaches,
common colds, and many other medical conditions. These studies help doctors
identify the best and safest treatments to improve the overall standard of care.
Before clinical trial sponsors (usually pharmaceutical or biotech companies) can
perform a clinical trial in humans, they must first complete very comprehensive
research in the laboratory on human cells and animals. If after this extensive
effort, they wish to proceed, they must apply for and receive approval from
agencies within the federal government.
Common Questions
Q: Why would I want to participate in a clinical trial?
A: You may wish to participate in a clinical trial for a variety of reasons.
Participation can be a very rewarding and satisfying experience. By participating,
you have an opportunity to contribute to the development of new and "cutting
edge" medical treatments. As a participant you will receive comprehensive
medical attention from highly skilled professionals who are available to answer
any questions you may have. In most studies you will receive diagnostic testing,
examinations and treatment without charge. This can help reduce expenses,
especially if your insurance has a high co-pay or if you don’t have medical
insurance. Most clinical trials also offer compensation for your time and travel for
study related visits.
Q: What is it like to be a volunteer in a clinical trial?
A: Participation in a clinical trial takes a commitment on your part. You will
have regular appointments to visit the research facility. The research staff will
spend a considerable amount of time working with you during your participation
and will take your participation very seriously. You will be given as much time as
you need to have all of your questions answered.
Here are some questions you may want to consider asking when discussing your
participation in a research study:
• What is the purpose of the study? What does the sponsor of the trial hope to
learn from the study?
• What is the length of time I am being asked to spend participating in the
study?
• What are the potential side effects, risks and benefits to me?
• Are there alternative treatments available? If so, what are they?
• What kind of treatment/medication will I be given?
• What medical options are available to me should I be unable to complete the
study?
Q: Are my rights as a person/volunteer protected?
A: ABSOLUTELY. Here are some of the ways your rights are protected:
• A study cannot begin without governmental and Institutional Review Board
(IRB) approval. An IRB is an independent group of medical and non-medical
professionals whose primary responsibility is to review the study to make sure it
poses no undue risks to the study participants.
• Your physician is required to provide the IRB with periodic reports while the
study is being conducted.
• Your medical records and trial data are held in the strictest confidence.
• You may terminate your participation at any time without jeopardizing your
access to other medical treatment.
Q: How do I know if I'm eligible to participate in a clinical trial?
A: Every study has a different purpose and very specific criteria, or
requirements. The first step is for you to agree to be assessed for participation in
a trial. You will then undergo a very detailed screening process to determine if you
are eligibility to participate.
Q: How can I be considered for a study? How do I find out about available
studies?
A: There are several ways to identify ongoing clinical drug trials. You can ask
your personal physician, your local medical center, hospital, or university. You can
also contact us to inquire about studies we have available and register with us for
upcoming studies.
Participating in a clinical trial is one of the best ways to guarantee good care.
Clinical trials are designed to compare a new treatment that has shown promise,
to the best available treatment. Under very strict scientific guidelines, a clinical
trial treats a large number of patients with either the standard therapy or a new
therapy.
Contact us at RCTrials@gmail.com
