Frequently Asked Questions About Clinical Research
What is a clinical trial (clinical research)?
A clinical trial (also called clinical research) is a research study in human volunteers to answer specific health questions. Carefully conducted clinical trials are the fastest and safest way to find treatments that work for people and ways to improve health. Interventional trials determine whether experimental treatments or new ways of using known therapies are safe and effective under controlled environments. Observational trials address health issues in large groups of people or populations in natural settings.
What happens during a clinical trial?
The clinical trial process depends on the kind of trial being conducted. Our clinical trial team includes doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals. They check the health of the participant at the beginning of the trial, give specific instructions for participating in the trial, monitor the participant carefully during the trial, and stay in touch after the trial is completed.
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. Clinical trial participation is most successful when the protocol is carefully followed and there is frequent contact with the research staff.
What are the benefits and risks of participating in a clinical trial?
Clinical trials that are well-designed and well-executed are the best approach for eligible participants to:
- Play an active role in their own health care.
- Gain access to new research treatments before they are widely available.
- Help others by contributing to medical research.
You can volunteer to participate in industry-sponsored diabetes clinical trials at our Center. Individuals participating in any research must meet certain eligibility requirements and be willing to sign an informed consent detailing the methods, procedures, risks, and benefits of the study. Participants have the right to withdraw from a study at any time.