What is Clinical Research?
Clinical research is the process of testing new treatments to ensure they are safe and effective before becoming widely available. It helps improve care for current and future patients.
When you participate in a clinical trial:
- Participation is completely voluntary
- You receive detailed information before enrolling
- You may withdraw at any time
- Your health and safety are carefully monitored
Clinical research plays an essential role in advancing medicine while protecting the well-being of participants.
The Clinical Trial Process.
If you decide to participate in a clinical trial, the process is designed to be clear, supportive, and carefully monitored.
Here’s what typically happens:
- Initial Screening
You’ll speak with a research team member to review basic eligibility and answer any questions. - Informed Consent
Before anything begins, the study will be explained in detail. You’ll have time to review the information and decide if participation is right for you. - Study Visits
You may attend scheduled visits at the research site for checkups, lab tests, or questionnaires. The number of visits varies by study. - Ongoing Monitoring
Your health and safety are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. - Voluntary Participation
You may choose to leave the study at any time, for any reason.
Every study is different, and the research team will clearly outline what participation involves before you enroll.
The Phases of Clinical Trials.
Phase I: Researchers study safety in a small group of participants.
Phase II: The treatment is tested to see if it works and to continue monitoring safety.
Phase III: Larger groups help confirm effectiveness and monitor side effects.
Phase IV: Ongoing research after approval.
Your Rights and Safety in a Clinical Trial.
Your safety and well-being are the highest priorities in any clinical trial.
Before a study begins, it is reviewed by an independent ethics committee, often called an Institutional Review Board (IRB), to help ensure that the research is conducted responsibly and ethically. Many studies are also monitored by regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
As a participant, you have important rights:
Participation is voluntary — You decide whether to join.
Informed consent — You receive detailed information about the study before agreeing to participate.
The right to ask questions — You can speak with the research team at any time.
The right to withdraw — You may leave the study at any time, for any reason.
Privacy protection — Your personal health information is handled securely and confidentially.
You are never required to continue a study if you feel uncomfortable. The research team is there to support you every step of the way.
Why Participate in a Clinical Trial?
Be part of advancing medical science while receiving expert care
What is a Clinical Trial?
Who Can Participate in a Clinical Trial?
Is There Any Cost to Participate in a Clinical Trial?
Will I Be Paid for Participating?
Do I Need Medical Insurance to Join a Clinical Trial?
Can I Drop Out of the Study at Any Time?
How Do I Know If I Qualify to Participate in a Clinical Trial?
Find a Clinical Trial.
Search by location to see studies enrolling near you.
Enter your location to explore active clinical trials in your area. Participation is voluntary, and our team is here to help you understand your options every step of the way.