Clinical Trials Participation
People have different reasons for wanting to participate in clinical trials.
- Availability of the newest treatments
- The desire to contribute to science
- Access to free drugs and medical care
Participants are carefully selected for a particular trial. Every trial has specific criteria that is set by pharmaceutical companies funding the study. The criteria may relate to: gender, age, or medical history.
The rights and well being of clinical trial participants are protected by the same laws and ethics that normally regulate the medical profession.
Institutional Review Boards are specific committees in medical institutions that review proposed clinical trials involving humans. The purpose of these committees is to ensure that trials are conducted in an ethical manner and to avoid any unreasonable risks associated with the trial design. Only trials that have been approved by an Institutional Review Board are allowed to proceed.
Informed consent is a principle in which a person is given all the information needed to make an educated and informed decision as to whether to participate in a clinical trial. The information should describe all aspects of the trial, from its purpose to a statement about who pays for medical care to treat any research-related injuries. It is essential that participants read the documents carefully.
If you are selected, the clinical trial may require that you:
- have a study-related medical exam
- have a blood work
- have an EKG and study specific procedures
- take medication
These medical services are provided at no charge to you. You may be compensated for your time and travel.
Once you qualify for one of our studies, you will receive detailed information about the study and your personal medical information will be handled confidentially.
To learn more about clinical trials, you may visit the following web sites:
Center Watch
ClinicalTrials.gov