Clinical Research Studies – Eligibility & Participation
There are certain requirements which must be met to be eligible to participate in a clinical study. These requirements are based on such factors as age, gender, the type and stage of a disease, previous and current treatments, and other medical conditions. Medical insurance is not required to participate in clinical studies or to receive study-related medical care and services. The company conducting the study usually pays for all costs involved in research studies.
Study Participation
If you are eligible and decide to participate, an informed consent document will be presented to you. This document includes information about the clinical study and what you can expect as a participant, as well as potential benefits and possible risks associated with the research.
You should take your time and read carefully through the informed consent document. When you are satisfied that all of your questions have been answered, you will be asked to sign the document.
As a participant, you may be asked to:
- Take investigational drugs as directed
- Come in for ofice visits
- Have laboratory and diagnostic tests
Study participants may also receive, at no cost, study-related medical care, investigational drugs, and laboratory services.