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.
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 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.
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.
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.
