Q. What is a clinical research study?
A clinical research study, also known as a trial, is designed to test the effects of a medication, medical treatment, or device in a group of volunteers. Clinical research studies make an important step in making new medications available. They measure a drug's ability to treat a condition, its safety, and its possible side effects.
The information obtained from clinical trials helps doctors and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) help ensure a drug's safety and effectiveness for patients. The FDA requires that a drug is proven safe and effective for an illness or disease before it is made widely available to physicians and patients.
Q. Who can participate in a study?
Each study has a different age range. We conduct studies with infants, children, and adults. Typically, eligibility is based on age or type of and severity of disease.
Q. What is involved in the study visits?
Each study is different. The visits can include a brief physical examination, EKG's, laboratory tests, vital signs or pulmonary function tests. Participation is completely voluntary and the patient can terminate participation at any time for any reason.
Q. What are the benefits for the patient?
All study medications and related testing, for example: EKG's laboratory tests, and physicals, are provided at no cost to the patient. Study patients are usually compensated for time and travel related to the study. Compensation can be up to several hundred dollars.
Q. I heard you can be paid to participate in clinical research trials?
If you qualify for a study, then yes, you are compensated for your time and travel.
Q. Do I need health insurance to participate in a clinical research study?
No, if you are participating in a research study, we do not bill insurance companies. If you are eligible for a study, there is a possibility you may receive medications, examinations, and laboratory tests at no cost.Q. How do I know if I qualify for a study?
Call Health Sciences Research Center at Asthma & Allergy Associates P.C. at 1-800-88-ASTHMA, or email us here.
