How To Participate in a Clinical Trial

~Large, well-known clinics such as the Mayo Clinic conduct trials. Find out more at www.mayoclinic.com

Talk to your doctor or health care practitioner before you decide to do this. Plus, it's important to ask questions. The NIH suggests that you find out:

• What is the purpose of the study?
• What types of tests and experimental treatments are involved?
• Why do researchers think the treatment being tested may be effective? Has it been tested before?
• Will the study directly benefit me?
• What are the risks?
• How do the possible risks, side effects and benefits of the experimental treatment compare with my current treatment?
• How much of my time will be involved? Will hospitalization be required? What about outpatient visits?
• Who pays for the experimental treatment? Will I be reimbursed for other expenses?
• Who is responsible for my care during the study? What type of follow-up care will be provided?
• How will I learn about the trial results?

If you're chosen for a clinical trial, you'll be asked to sign an agreement that you understand the risks. The fact is you can BACK OUT OF THE TRIAL AT ANY POINT, whether you have signed something or not.

I'm curious if any of our readers are participating in a clinical trial now and if so, what's your experience? Let us know!