How to Join a Clinical Trial

Your step-by-step guide to participating in clinical research. From finding the right trial to understanding your rights as a participant.

Your Journey to Joining a Trial

01

Search for Trials

Use our search tool to find trials for your condition

  • Enter your diagnosis or condition
  • Specify your location and travel distance
  • Filter by trial phase and treatment type
  • Review matching studies
02

Check Eligibility

Review inclusion and exclusion criteria

  • Age and gender requirements
  • Disease stage or severity
  • Previous treatments received
  • Overall health status
03

Contact Research Team

Reach out to the study coordinator

  • Submit initial inquiry through our platform
  • Schedule screening appointment
  • Prepare questions about the trial
  • Gather medical records
04

Screening Visit

Complete initial evaluation and testing

  • Medical history review
  • Physical examination
  • Laboratory tests
  • Confirm eligibility
05

Informed Consent

Understand and agree to trial participation

  • Review trial purpose and procedures
  • Understand risks and benefits
  • Learn about your rights
  • Sign consent documents
06

Begin Participation

Start the trial protocol

  • Receive study treatment
  • Attend scheduled visits
  • Complete assessments
  • Report any side effects

Your Rights as a Participant

Clinical trials are highly regulated to protect participants. You have important rights and protections throughout the process.

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Voluntary Participation

You can leave a trial at any time for any reason without penalty

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Full Information

You must receive complete details about the trial before agreeing to participate

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Privacy Protection

Your medical information is protected by HIPAA and confidentiality agreements

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No Cost Treatment

Study treatments and related medical care are provided at no charge

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Medical Care

You'll receive close monitoring from specialized medical teams

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24/7 Support

Access to study team for questions or concerns at any time

What to Expect During a Trial

Regular Monitoring

You'll have frequent check-ups with the research team to monitor your health, track progress, and ensure your safety throughout the trial.

Detailed Record-Keeping

You may be asked to keep diaries, complete questionnaires, or track symptoms to help researchers understand how the treatment affects you.

Follow-Up Care

Even after the treatment phase ends, you may have follow-up visits to monitor long-term effects and ensure your continued wellbeing.

Questions to Ask

  • What is the purpose of this study?
  • What treatments will I receive?
  • What are the possible risks and benefits?
  • How long will the trial last?
  • Will I need to stay in the hospital?
  • Who will be in charge of my care?
  • What happens when the trial ends?
  • Will I learn the results of the study?

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I receive a placebo?

Not all trials use placebos. When they do, you'll be informed during consent. Many trials compare new treatments to standard care rather than placebos.

Can I continue seeing my regular doctor?

Yes! Clinical trials complement, not replace, your regular medical care. Your study team will coordinate with your physician.

What if I experience side effects?

The research team closely monitors all participants. Any side effects are documented and treated immediately. You can withdraw if needed.

Will I be compensated?

Many trials offer compensation for time and travel. This varies by study and will be discussed during the consent process.

How long do trials last?

Duration varies widely - from a few weeks to several years. The timeline will be clearly explained before you commit.

Can I join multiple trials?

Generally, you can only participate in one treatment trial at a time, but this depends on the specific studies.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Join thousands of patients who are contributing to medical breakthroughs while accessing cutting-edge treatments.