Frequently Asked Questions

Do I qualify? Who is eligible for a research study?

Every study has its own unique criteria that determine who is an ideal patient. Your medical history, medications and current health status will all be considered when evaluating different study options. While we encourage everyone to explore opportunities for participation, it's important to understand that only those who are medically suitable for a clinical trial will be offered the opportunity to enroll.

What are my choices?

Research is always an option, and never a requirement. For any study you may be interested in, our staff will spend the time to educate you on each detail of involvement, and the decision to participate is entirely yours.

How do I know what studies I qualify for?

In order to understand your options, you will need to contact one of our research team members. 

Research studies only open enrollment for specific periods of time. During that time, interested participants will need to go through a screening and evaluation process to ensure that the study is safe and medically appropriate. Only those who meet all of the criteria of the study will have the opportunity to enroll. 

Not every study is the right fit for every patient! Our job is to ensure the best options, while following strict guidelines to ensure patient safety.

Who pays for this and what exactly is being covered?

Clinical trials are at the expense of the organization sponsoring the study. None of the procedures, medications, or time spent with our clinicians will cost you anything. Some studies may even provide a stipend for your time.

If the protocol allows, we can bring the study team to you! If the study requires that a patient volunteer attends a visit at our clinic, the cost of transportation will be covered for you. 

What about my regular doctors?

Research programs do not replace the care you receive from your primary care doctor or specialists, but rather are a supplement to that care. We can work with you and your doctors to ensure all pertinent medical information is shared between our teams.

What are stipends? Am I getting paid?

Most clinical trials provide compensation to volunteers in the form of stipends. This reimbursement is an amount that is typically fixed and pre-approved by an ethics board. The intention is to ensure that our volunteers are compensated fairly for the time spent during visits supporting clinical trials. Every study is different, and you will be given information about available stipends and reimbursements prior to volunteering for any study.