When deciding whether to participate in a clinical trial, many things must be taken into consideration. All participants are volunteers, so being comfortable with being included in the trial is most important. Many participants have exhausted existing treatment options with limited success and are willing to experiment with new and promising (although not thoroughly tested and screened) options. The criteria for qualifying can vary from trial to trial. Exclusions may include age, demographics, health conditions, gender, stage of the disease, and other criteria specific to certain trials. One common denominator motivating most all participants is the desire for relief and finding a cure.
Understanding the Risks
A major factor in participating in a clinical trial is understanding the risks. Participants are required to sign an “Informed Consent” form, either by the participant or a responsible proxy. Informed Consent states the risks involved in the trial and, by signing, the participants agree to be a part of the trial with the possibility to opt-out at any time. Trials are a way to see which devices, treatments, medicine, strength, and frequency of dose are effective and possible side effects that may occur. Having the knowledge to make an informed decision to consent to treatment is essential to success.
Doctor Recommendation and Potential Benefits
The benefits of participating would include the possibility of improvement of a condition, a cure to a disease, increasing your quality of life, and frequent monitoring of your condition in order to judge the effects of the trial. Another benefit to consider would be the possibility of having the medical care expenses covered by the research team. Having the chance to experience new options for treatment not yet available to the public can give hope for cure or remission when all proven options have been exhausted. Listening to doctor’s recommendations and being comfortable with the chance for success is important before any treatment.
The Research Team
Being informed about the research team and company will make the decision to become a participant more comfortable. Gaining knowledge of the practices of a particular research team’s ethics, attention to detail, quality of care and overall success rate can help participants feel comfortable with their decision to be a part of any trial. At Altus Research, located in Florida, the highly-trained staff is responsible for conducting numerous trials. Led by Dr. Samuel Lederman, the founder, and medical director, the research teams are motivated to host trials ingrained with ethical standards, quality of service and observations of safety protocols and timely treatment. Dr. Lederman has been conducting trials since 1996 and has made many ground-breaking discoveries with new medications, devices, and treatment options.
All Things Considered
An individual can, and is encouraged to, participate in a clinical trial if they fit the required criteria, are consenting to the treatment, and are willing to be part of the innovative and promising possibilities for successful treatment for themselves and future patients. If you are interested in participating in a clinical trial, we would love to hear from you. Contact us online today.
