What is a Clinical Trial?

Clinical trials are medical research studies in which volunteers participate to assist scientists to understand whether a treatment is safe and effective before it can be used widely in healthcare. These investigational therapies may include new medications, drug combinations, innovative delivery methods for existing drugs, or medical devices.

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Safety First

Safety First

Clinical trials are designed with your safety in mind. They are closely monitored by healthcare professionals, who ensure that you receive the best care throughout the process. Plus, by participating, you contribute to advancing medical knowledge, which can help countless others in the future.

Be Part of the Innovation

Be Part of the Innovation

Not only could you potentially improve your own health, but you’ll also be playing a vital role in helping researchers discover new solutions for everyone facing similar health challenges. Your involvement could make a real difference! If you’re curious about new treatment options and want to be part of something bigger, consider joining a clinical trial. It’s a chance to take an active role in your health journey while helping shape the future of medicine.

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Why Participate in a Clinical Trial?

Participating in a clinical trial offers several compelling benefits:

  1. High-Quality Care
  2. Contribution to Medical Research
  3. Informed Decision-Making
  4. Potential for Improved Health
  5. Support and Resources
  6. Community and Connection with other participants facing similar health challenges, fostering a sense of community and support.

Participating in a clinical trial can be a valuable and rewarding experience. While specific treatment outcomes cannot be guaranteed, clinical trial participants often benefit in various ways, including contributing to the advancement of healthcare and potentially gaining access to cutting-edge medical care.

Why Does Research Matter?

Research volunteers are essential to medical discoveries and scientific progress. People join clinical trials for various reasons: healthy volunteers contribute to advancing science, while those with illnesses may benefit from investigational treatments and specialized care. Clinical trials offer hope and help researchers develop better treatments for the future. Participation is a personal choice, and we view it as a partnership to improve healthcare.

Participants' rights and safety are protected by U.S. federal agencies, including the FDA and NIH.

A doctor and patient in an operating room.
A woman sitting at the table with another person.

How Are Studies Conducted?

A clinical trial is carried out following a research plan called a protocol, which is designed by the pharmaceutical company and reviewed by both the FDA and an Institutional Review Board (IRB) to ensure public safety. These organizations oversee the study's progress. The protocol determines:

  • The reason for the study
  • The number of participants
  • The criteria used to determine who is eligible for the study
  • A schedule for procedures, tests, drugs and dosages
  • The length of the study
  • The data to be gathered about the participants

Clinical trials are overseen by a principal investigator, typically a physician, supported by a research team that includes doctors, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals. Conducting research with diverse populations is crucial to identifying varied responses to the investigational treatment.

FAQ’s

A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, or devices to determine their safety and effectiveness in people.