Research Clinical Trials

There's a lot to remember. Will any of the details be written down, so I can refer to them at home?

It does sound pretty complicated, and yet you should make every effort to understand it. When you review with your doctor the pros and cons of treatment, consider taking a close family member or friend along for support and for help in asking questions, expressing concerns, and recording answers. Some people even take a tape recorder along so they can listen to the conversation again later.

Your doctor or nurse will give you a written consent form that describes the key facts you need to know about the study: its goals, its potential risks and benefits, the medicines and tests you will be given, and alternative methods of treatment. You should take this form home with you, read it carefully, and discuss it with your family, friends, and anyone else you chose, before you make your decision. Feel free to call the doctor or nurse from home if you think of more questions, or if there is something you don't understand. Keep asking questions until you feel you have enough information to make a sound decision.

If you decide to participate in the trial, you will be asked to sign the consent form, indicating you understand what's written there and agree to participate. Be sure to keep a copy of the form so that you can refer back to it at any time.

Once the trial starts, can I change my mind?

Yes, you can withdraw your consent at any time, but it's best to take the time you need before you start treatment to make the best decision possible. Questions may come up during the study that you didn't think about before you agreed to participate. Don't hesitate to ask these questions of any member of the research team to get answers and resolve concerns.

Can I be treated at my doctor's office or local hospital, or do I have to go to a big medical center?

That depends on the study. Most studies are available at community hospitals as well as at the central university hospitals. Exceptions arise if a very scarce piece of equipment is required by the study, or if the trial involves a new specialized technique familiar only to a few doctors.