Thinking About a Clinical Trial? Here’s What You Should Know First

If you’ve ever wondered about joining a clinical trial, you’re not alone — and you’re not a guinea pig. Alyssa Greiner, spokesperson for Clinical Trials for All, wants patients to know that today’s clinical trials are designed with patient safety and comfort as top priorities.

“Clinical trials are closely monitored by multiple groups to protect patients,” says Greiner. Oversight doesn’t just come from the company running the trial. Independent organizations, ethics committees and regulatory bodies also review protocols and monitor safety at every step.

Your Safety Comes First

Participants are cared for by a dedicated team of health care professionals whose job is to make the trial experience as safe and seamless as possible. “They’re focused on your well-being and keeping you informed,” Greiner explains.

Patients are encouraged to ask questions before, during and after their participation. Need help with transportation, reimbursement or other accommodations? Speak up. Trials often offer support to make participation easier.

Most importantly: If you ever feel uncomfortable or decide the trial isn’t right for you, you can leave at any time. Participation is 100% voluntary.

Improving Diversity in Clinical Research

The clinical trial industry is also working hard to reach more diverse and underrepresented communities. One strategy: bringing trials to where patients live.

Sponsors are doing the following:

• Partnering with community doctors and leaders to design more inclusive trials
• Offering services like transportation reimbursement and telehealth options
• Providing translated materials so non-English-speakers can fully understand consent forms and instructions
• Building community-based research sites in underserved areas

“We want to break down barriers that have historically kept many groups from participating,” says Greiner.

Where to Start

Thinking about joining a clinical trial? Greiner offers three tips:

• Talk to your doctor. They may know of local trials or have trusted contacts in the research community.
• Connect with a patient advocate, especially one familiar with your condition or background — they can help guide you.
• Visit Clinical Trials for All for resources, educational tools and a database of active studies.

This transcript has been edited for clarity.