Patients & Volunteers >> FAQ

What is a clinical research study?
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 the laboratory. Clinical research studies provide a way to test experimental treatments. All treatments in widespread use today were first proven effective and safe in clinical studies.

Who can participate in clinical trials?
Each study is designed for a particular group of people, whose ability to participate is based on 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.

What should I expect when enrolling in a study?
You will be counseled regarding 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. We often provide our patients with support information, educational material and referral services.

How do I participate in a clinical research study?
When contacting us, you will be greeted by a clinical research coordinator who will ask you a series of questions regarding your current health condition or disease state. 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 study at that time, we may contact you regarding future clinical research studies.

Will participation in a clinical study cost me anything?
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, receiving compensation does not change your ability to leave the study at any time.