Every medical research trial is governed by a strict protocol which dictates the exact procedures both patients and researchers must follow as they carry out the testing. Nevertheless, general pre-trial and evaluation steps are roughly the same regardless of which trial is being considered. These basic steps ensure that trial participants both understand all aspects of the trial itself and are perfectly suited for a particular trial.
If you feel you qualify for, say, a rheumatoid arthritis research trial, then you should understand all aspects of the trial, what the objectives are, and how long the research will take. There are several steps in clinical research procedures that are common to most medical research studies.
Initially, you will need to provide an authorization to the research team allowing them to evaluate your condition and suitability for the study. This authorization, or informed consent, simply gives the research team the permission to conduct tests, ask questions about your medical condition, evaluate your situation, and gather other important information. At this time, you’ll also be given a great deal of information regarding the trial itself. Any questions you have should be answered, and any concerns should be addressed. The information you’ll be given may include the reason for the study, what is known about the treatment and its effects, the testing procedure itself, the eligibility requirements, and a great deal other important information. Before joining a trial, you should be comfortable with the information you both give and are given.
You will also learn what benefits you might expect, how much time the test will take, and what compensation you will receive. You’ll also learn when you may need to visit the doctor and the medication schedule you will be expected to maintain.
Clinical trials are designed to test the effectiveness of drugs, new treatments, or existing treatments being applied in new ways. Clinical research trials such as trials for COPD medications or type II diabetes treatment are designed to advance treatments for patients with these conditions.
At DM Clinical Research, our highly trained research team of doctors and professionals is there to help you decide whether or not you qualify for one of our trials. We will explain every step you need to take and answer all of your questions. Give us a call at (281) 517-0550, and we will be happy to discuss any of our trials and guide you through the evaluation process. If you believe you may qualify for any of the trials currently underway, please call us for additional information.