Medical breakthroughs are the result of the work of many people. People willing to devote time and energy toward a greater good. People from all backgrounds.
The decision to join a clinical trial is personal, and it is yours. Participating in a clinical trial has the potential to impact you as well as many others affected by the same or a similar medical condition.
Who can participate in a clinical trial?
Each clinical trial has its own requirements for who can participate. These are called eligibility criteria.
Eligibility criteria include things like a person’s:
Age and Sex
Type and/or stage of disease
Overall health
Personal treatment history
Most clinical trials need people who have a specific disease or condition to participate, but some studies need volunteers without a specific disease or condition.
Key steps to join a clinical trial
If you are considering participating in a clinical trial and want to see if you meet the eligibility criteria, often the first step is to go through an initial screening process. This is called pre-screening. You’ll answer some questions about your health and medical history, typically in an online questionnaire or over the phone.
If your answers show you might be a good fit for the study, the study team or a study representative will contact you to discuss the next steps of the consent and screening process:
Informed consent
At your appointment, the study team will review the details of the study with you, including possible risks and benefits, so you will know what to expect. If you decide to participate, you will be asked to sign an informed consent document. This confirms that you understand the study and are willing to continue with screening and to take part in the study, if you are eligible.
Screening
During screening, you’ll visit the study doctor’s office to confirm whether you meet the eligibility criteria and are able to participate. This may include a more detailed review of your medical history and a physical exam. It may also include blood work and additional tests related to your condition.
