Frequently Asked Questions

Participation in clinical trials serves a crucial role in the advancement of medical treatments. Before any new medication becomes available for doctors to prescribe, it is essential to establish its safety and efficacy. This verification process involves meticulously conducting experiments with the potential new medication. These experiments, known as clinical trials, are the definitive method to evaluate the medication's effectiveness and to ensure it meets safety standards before it reaches patients

Frequently asked, expertly answered

How are Science 37 research studies different?

Our core focus is making the clinical research experience better for patients — we use a site-less, decentralized approach to conducting research that puts participants first. That's why we make sure that any part of the research study that can be done remotely comes to you in your home. People join research studies to help move science forward, and our model allows you to spend more time participating in the research, not traveling to a research site.

What does a typical research study look like?

Research studies help us determine whether new investigational diagnostic tests are safe and effective. The government has established many rules to help ensure that research studies are conducted in the most ethical and safe way possible and that participants are protected throughout. Participants receive specific interventions — which may be investigational medications, devices, or procedures— according to a research plan (protocol) developed by the investigators.

Why volunteer to take part in a research study?

Volunteers are part of the next wave of science and can influence the future of medicine. Advances in research have allowed people to get personalized cancer treatment, be vaccinated for polio, have less invasive tests, manage their diabetes, and countless other developments — and these breakthroughs wouldn't be possible without volunteers. People volunteer to: help others by contributing to medical knowledge, get more involved in their own health care and learn about their condition, join a community and get support. During the informed consent process, you'll learn about all of the potential benefits and risks of joining the research study.

Can I tell my doctor? Will my doctor get involved?

You can always share information about the research study with your primary doctor or healthcare provider. We encourage you to do so, especially if this is someone you know well and trust. Your doctor can be an additional resource when you are first learning about a research study and have any questions. You can continue to see your doctor throughout the research study for routine visits and tests. Our study team is available to talk to both you and your doctor if there are any concerns or questions. Working together helps to ensure that other medications or treatments you receive will not be a problem with the research study protocol. However, because these studies are investigational, the result of the study will not be available to individual patients.

Will taking part in a research study cost me anything?

There is no cost to participate, and many research studies offer reimbursement for your time and effort. Compensation depends on the research study and is discussed during the informed consent process.

How long is a research study?

Research studies are designed by a team of expert scientists, physicians, and statisticians. The duration of a research study varies depending on the protocol that this team develops. When you learn about a research study, you will be informed about the time commitment needed before you agree to participate.

How do I take part in a research study from home? How do I receive study supplies?

Science 37 research studies are designed to make participation easier for you. Where permitted, study supplies are shipped directly to your home. If you have any problems with receiving the supplies, you will be able to contact the study team at any time. The Science 37 app on your study smartphone will keep you connected to the study team and ensure that you know what to do, and when to do it. The app displays your personalized study calendar and sends you reminders and notifications.

Can I talk to other people about the research study?

Besides talking to the study staff, you should minimize sharing your experience in the research study with others. We understand that talking about your experience is an important part of feeling supported, but we ask that you not share information about the research study on social media or with other research study participants. This helps to ensure the most valid and highest-quality scientific results. Our study team is always available to address your questions and concerns.

What if I want to leave a research study?

You can leave the research study at any time and for any reason. You are under no obligation to complete a research study or give a reason why you're leaving one. Although we do our best to make our research studies as easy as possible for you to take part in, we understand that there are many reasons why finishing may not be possible. However, if you do not complete the study, any potential compensation will not be available to you.

What happens to me after I complete the research study?

After you complete the research study, the study team will talk with you to answer your questions and get your feedback on your overall experience during the trial. As a Science 37 research study participant, you will have access to news and updates about medical discoveries, educational content, and future research opportunities. You will continue to see your local primary doctor or healthcare provider for routine medical care.