Take part in a study

Clinical trials are used to help develop new treatments and ensure the care we provide to patients is safe and effective. Without the voluntary participation of patients, this work would not be possible.

One of the most common things patients want to know about a trial, is what it will involve for them. The list below outlines some of the things that may be involved when participating in clinical trials.

Consent

Before you take part in any research activity, your doctor or nurse will discuss the study with you. They will explain the design of the study, what it entails and what the study is trying to achieve. They will also explain the potential risks and benefits of being involved in the research study. You will be reassured that you can choose to decline, or withdraw from the study at any time should you change your mind, without your rights or care being affected.

Tests

There may be additional tests or investigations to assess how you are progressing throughout your time on the study. This may include blood tests, x-rays, MRI scans or CT scans. There may also be other types of test/investigations, specific to the type of study that you are involved in. You will be given plenty of notice of these tests/investigations. Where possible, we will try to coincide these activities with scheduled clinic visits to ensure that there is a minimal impact on your day-to-day activities.

Clinic Visits

You may need to come to the clinic to see the research nurses on a more regular basis than if you were not in the study. However, we will keep this to as few visits as possible. We may be able to conduct some clinic assessments by telephone to prevent you needing to attend the hospital. You will see one of our dedicated research delivery team who will be your point of contact throughout the study.

Medication

Some studies require patients to take medication. Where this is the case, medication will be provided to you from the hospital pharmacy. Where possible, we will arrange for this to be from your local hospital. If a study does involve medication, your research nurse and doctor will provide you with all of the information you require about the medication you are being asked to take, and will be happy to answer any additional questions you may have.

For more information on what it is like to be involved in research from people who have real life experience, click here to hear their stories.

Click here for a sample of some of the studies currently open at CDDFT.