Frequently Asked Questions
Ten Reasons to Participate in a Study
- There is no cost to you.
- No insurance is needed.
- You may be compensated.
- You will be helping others.
- You don't have too drive far. We are located in Woodstock, Vermont.
- You'll receive cutting edge treatment.
- You are contributing to science.
- You'll receive excellent care.
- It is completely confidential.
- IT MAY HELP YOU!
What is a Clinical Trial?
A clinical trial is a research study designed to evaluate new treatments in order to determine if they are safe and effective. The FDA requires that all drugs be tested extensively prior to being approved. Clinical trials are usually sponsored by a pharmaceutical company, biotechnology company, or a health-related agency.
Who can participate in a clinical trial?
Each clinical trial is designed to answer specific questions, therefore there are guidelines as to who can participate. These criteria are based on factors such as age, gender, medical conditions, and medical history. This allows researchers to target a specific population of people in order to gain the answers they seek.
What's in it for me?
Clinical trials provide participants with access to a thorough diagnostic workups and cutting edge treatments before they become widely available. Clinical trials are the foundation for the new medicines of tomorrow. In addition, most clinical trials also provide a physical exam by an experienced physician and extensive laboratory tests all at no cost. It is an affordable way to gain access to first rate health care while making a positive contribution to medical science.
Why are some studies placebo-controlled?
A placebo, also known as a sugar pill is often used in clinical trials as a comparison to determine if the drug being studied is effective. By having some of the people take a placebo, we a re able to more accurately determine if improvement is due to the medication being studied, or is due to the natural course of the problem being treated. You will not know whether you are on the placebo or on the study drug, nor will the study doctor or staff. Your chances of receiving either are random and assigned by a computer. Regardless of whether you receive the placebo or study drug, the quality of care you receive will be equivalent.
What happens at the end of the study?
At the end of the study, we will discuss your treatment options with you and execute a plan for your care. Our study doctor will try to get you established on an appropriate medication, also at no charge, to then be followed up by your primary care physician.
Is there a cost to me to participate?
No. All of the study procedures and study drug are provided to you at no cost. Most clinical trials also reimburse participants for their travel time.
How long and how often are visits during the study?
Each study varies regarding the time commitment you must make. Some studies last only a few weeks whereas others can last up to several years. Typically the first visit lasts 3-4 hours, so that we can provide an extensive evaluation and gain an accurate account of your medical history. Follow up visits usually last under an hour and can range from weekly to monthly, depending on the requirements of that particular study.
What happens if I want to drop out?
While we hope that all people who enter a study intend to complete it, you can drop out at any time. Your participation in any clinical trial is completely voluntary. You can end your participation at any time. You will be asked to return all study medication, and come to the office for a final visit, if at all possible.
How is my privacy protected?
Your privacy is important to us. Clinical trials are governed by agencies that ensure your privacy is protected. Information that is acquired about you throughout the study is linked to you only by a number, your personal information does not leave our office with any identification beyond your participation number. Your visits are completely confidential, unless you ask us to share information about you with your personal doctor or other provider.
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