What to Expect?
Each volunteer must be screened to see if they meet the requirements set for the specific trial that they are interested in. These requirements are put into place to make sure that the research will collect the most thorough information from the study, and for the safety of the volunteers. You may see these requirements being called “Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria”. Inclusion criteria lists the things that the volunteer must meet to be included in the study (ex: age, sex, demographics, certain diagnosis, etc.), and “Exclusion Criteria” would be anything that would exclude you from the study (ex: medications, other medical diagnosis, etc.).
If you see a clinical trial that you are interested in, call the clinical research site and they will be able to answer any questions you may have, and assist you in scheduling for a screening visit.
Do not be discouraged if you do not qualify for one clinical trial. Each clinical trial has its own requirements. What disqualifies you in one study may not disqualify you in another. It is best to contact a research site so we can help find the right study for you.
Should I participate in a Clinical Trial?
Clinical trials are part of clinical research and at the heart of all medical advances. Every medication, vaccine, or device available on the market was at some point tested in a clinical trial. We need participants like you to ensure the most effective medications and treatments are available. You will be part of research that can have a positive impact on the advancement of global healthcare. Clinical trials offer hope for people and an opportunity to help researchers find better treatments for others in the future.
If you’re considering enrolling in one of our current trials, here’s what to expect:
Contact
Let us know you are interested in learning more by filling out one of our contact forms. You can inquire about a specific study (find our list of studies here). Or fill out our general contact form and we will find a study that’s right for you. You can also call our office during our office hours at 562-905-6262.
Initial Screening Phone Call
One of our study coordinators will contact you and ask you a series of questions which will assist in determining if you are eligible for the study. These questions may pertain to your illness or condition, health, and medications you currently take. In addition, they can answer any questions you may have, and give you more details about your role in the study.
Scheduling
If you are found to be eligible after the initial screening questions, your study coordinator will make an appointment for your first visit. This will include a physical exam, which may be needed to complete the screening process. There may also be other required tests. You will need to meet the study’s physical requirements to qualify.
First Visit and Physical Exam
During this visit we may record your height, weight, temperature and blood pressure. We may also need to take blood and urine samples and conduct other diagnostic tests. In addition, we will thoroughly explain potential risks involved with the study and you will be given the opportunity to review and sign informed consent. You will meet your study doctor and discuss any questions or concerns you may have. All participant responsibilities during the trial will be outlined and will vary from study to study. For example, one study may require participants to complete a log or diary and make many follow-up visits over a long period of time. However, another study may require only one application of the study drug and one follow-up visit. Participating in a clinical trial is completely voluntary and you can withdraw at any time.
Enrollment
If you have met the study qualifications and signed the informed consent, you are then enrolled in the study and will be given the clinical trial medication and instructions.
Follow Up Visits
Depending on the trial, you may need to schedule appointments for a series of follow-up visits at NHRD. Follow-up visits may include a brief physical exam and/or a review of your study medications, lab tests, and symptoms. You will have an opportunity at every visit to discuss questions or concerns.
Final Visit
The final visit is similar to the follow-up visits. At this time you can give an overview of your experience with the medication over the course of the trial. In some cases additional visits may be needed. It is at this visit you can inquire about when the results of the trial will be made available. Study results may be made public several months, or sometimes several years, after the time of your participation.
Compensation
Many studies offer compensation for your time and travel. The amount of compensation varies each study. Details of compensation will be discussed at your first visit.
By volunteering in a study you are helping to further the understanding of diseases, and aid in the research of new therapeutic options. Volunteers are a critical link in a long chain of research and testing for the advancement of new medical treatments and medical devices.
Want to learn more about our active studies?