Participant Tips

The clinical trial process depends on the kind of trial being conducted. Some clinical trials involve more tests and doctor visits than the participant would normally have for an illness or condition. For all types of trials, the participant works with a research team.

Before the clinical trial

You should know as much as possible about the clinical trial and feel comfortable asking the members of the research team questions about it, such as the care you can expect while participating in a trial, and whether there are any costs associated with participation. Prepare for the meeting with the research coordinator or doctor by planning ahead and writing down possible questions to ask. Bring a friend or relative for support and to hear the responses to the questions, and feel free to use a tape recorder to record the discussion to replay later.

The following questions might be helpful for the participant to discuss with the healthcare team:

• What is the purpose of the study?
• Who is going to be in the study?
• Why do researchers believe the new treatment being tested may be effective? Has it been tested before?
• What kinds of tests and treatments are involved?
• How do the possible risks, side effects, and benefits in the study compare with my current treatment?
• How might this trial affect my daily life?
• How long will the trial last?
• Will hospitalization be required?
• Who will pay for the treatment?
• Will I be reimbursed for other expenses?
• What type of long-term follow-up care is part of this study?
• How will I know that the treatment is working?
• Will results of the trial be provided to me?
• Who will be in charge of my study-related care?