Participating in a Clinical Study: What to Expect

Want to sign up for a clinical study but don’t know what to expect?

Through clinical studies, physicians discover new and improved ways to prevent, detect, diagnose, control, and treat illnesses. While every clinical study varies depending on what and why research is being done, we hope to give you a general overview of what you can expect at Clinvest Research. Sometimes it is fear of the unknown that is the barrier between you and experiencing the many benefits of participating in a clinical trial.

Contact
Let us know you are interested in learning more by filling out one of our contact forms. You can inquire about a specific study (find our list of studies here). Or fill out our general contact form and we will find a study that’s right for you. You can also call our office during our office hours at (417) 883-7889.

Initial Screening Phone Call
One of our study coordinators will contact you and ask you a series of questions which will assist in determining if you are eligible for the study. These questions may pertain to your illness or condition, health, and medications you currently take. In addition, they can answer any questions you may have, and give you further details about your role in the study.

Scheduling
If you are found to be eligible after the initial screening questions, your study coordinator will make an appointment for your first visit. This will include a physical exam, which may be needed to complete the screening process. There may also be other required tests. You will need to meet the study’s physical requirements to qualify.

First Visit and Physical Exam
During this visit we may record your height, weight, temperature and blood pressure. We may also need take blood and urine samples and conduct other diagnostic tests. In addition, we will thoroughly explain potential risks involved with the study and you will be given the opportunity to review and sign informed consent. You will meet your study doctor and discuss any questions or concerns you may have. All participant responsibilities during the trial will be outlined and will vary from study to study. For example, one study may require participants to complete a log or diary and make many follow-up visits over a long period of time. However, another study may require only one application of the study drug and one follow-up visit.  Participating in a clinical trial is completely voluntary and you can withdraw at any time.

Enrollment
If you have met the study qualifications and signed the informed consent, you are then enrolled in the study and will be given the clinical trial medication and instructions.

Follow Up Visits
Depending on the trial, you may need to schedule appointments for a series of follow-up visits at Clinvest Research. Follow-up visits may include a brief physical exam and/or a review of your study medications, symptoms, and lab tests. You will have an opportunity at every visit to discuss questions or concerns.

Final Visit
The final visit is similar to the follow-up visits. At this time you can give an overview of your experience with the medication over the course of the trial. In some cases additional visits may be needed. It is at this visit you can inquire about when the results of the trial will be made available. Study results may be made public several months, or sometimes several years, after the time of your participation.

Compensation
Many studies offer compensation for your time and travel. The amount of compensation varies from study to study. If your study offers compensation, you will receive a check after each visit.