For Our Patients

Why Clinical Research?

Clinical research is at the heart of all medical advances. Researchers make educated predictions as to how medications and therapies really work based on scientific observations and by controlling changes in treatments.  Having people volunteer to take part in clinical trials is crucial to really advancing medical care, in this country and around the world.

To see a list of studies that are currently looking for volunteers, please see our Currently Enrolling Studies page.

If you choose to volunteer for one of our research studies, you will:

• Have a dedicated research coordinator available to help you in every aspect of your participation—from beginning to end.
• Have access to new treatments before they are widely available.
• Have the study explained in terms you can understand and be able to ask as many questions as you like at any time during the study.
• Only be invited into studies that have been approved by an Institutional Review Board and/or the FDA.
• Undergo necessary screening tests, as indicated in the study, to help make sure you it is safe for you to participate.
• Have additional tests and receive treatments or medications, sometimes at no cost.
• Have an assigned licensed medical professional overseeing your medical care in addition to your primary care provider.

Please see our Frequently Asked Questions section, or contact a Research Coordinator for more information.

Your Decision

Research has shown that people who participate in clinical trials may respond better to their treatment than people not in trials, whether or not they are receiving active medication. Some people think this might be because participants have frequent access to medical staff, are on regimented treatment programs and getting regular feedback from professionals. It should always be kept in mind, participating in a clinical trial is not intended to replace the regular care that you receive from a primary care provider, but as a supplement to it.

Participating in a clinical trial is a complex and voluntary decision. Discuss it with a trusted family member, friend or your doctor. You have as much time as you need to consider your decision. If at any time after you have consented to participate, you change your mind about being in the study, you are free to withdraw. You do not have to worry; your regular medical care will not be affected.

The more you know, the more you grow. We appreciate the privilege of discussing the options of volunteering for a research study. To discuss with a coordinator whether participating in a study is a good decision for you, please contact us as .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).