What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study in human volunteers to answer specific health questions. Carefully conducted clinical trials are the safest and fastest way to find new, effective treatments, and new ways to improve health.
There are different kinds of clinical trials, including those to study:
- Prevention options
- New treatments or new ways to use existing treatment
- New screening and diagnostic techniques
- Options for improving the quality of life for people who have serious medical conditions
Clinical trials are conducted according to a plan called a protocol. The protocol describes what types of patients may enter the study, schedules of tests and procedures, drugs, dosages, and length of study, as well as the outcomes that will be measured. Each person participating in the study must agree to the rules set out by the protocol.
Can anyone participate in a clinical trial?
The requirements for participation in a clinical trial vary based on the specific objectives for each trial, and it is important that participants fit the guidelines. Not everyone who applies for a clinical trial will be accepted. Volunteers may be excluded based on the eligibility criteria and/or the number of participants needed by the researchers to collect enough information to determine the safety and effectiveness of a therapeutic agent.
What does it cost to participate in a clinical trial?
It does not cost participants anything to participate in a clinical trial at SCRI. Insurance is never billed and there are never any out of pocket medical expenses. All medical services at Southeastern Clinical Research Institute are provided free of charge and led by board-certified physicians.
Are clinical trials safe?
The ethical and legal codes that govern a medical practice also apply to clinical trials. Every clinical trial in the United States must be approved and monitored by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) to make sure the risks are as low as possible and are worth any potential benefits. The IRB reviews research studies from a layperson’s perspective to determine whether the clinical study documents are complete and understandable to the prospective participant. All trials involve some form of risk. However, the risks are always evaluated closely.
What are the benefits of participating in a clinical trial?
By participating in a clinical trial, you will be able to gain access to promising new treatments before they are made widely available. Additionally, you will be helping others by contributing to medical research that will benefit other patients for years to come.