Your Guide to Clinical Trials

Clinical trials don’t have to be a mystery, and it’s important to make a decision that’s right for you. Here’s what you need to know about participating in a clinical study, from how they work to what to expect along the way.

What is a clinical trial?

Clinical trials are how new treatments, devices, and approaches move from research to real care. They’re carefully designed medical studies that help doctors and researchers learn whether a treatment is safe and effective.

Every medical breakthrough and innovation, from cancer immunotherapy to heart drugs, have all started because of clinical trials! Participants in research studies play a vital role in advancing medical knowledge and helping future patients.

Explore Treatment Areas

Participating in a trial: who is eligible?

Every clinical study has its own set of requirements, such as age, gender, or health condition. These requirements are in place to ensure participant safety and accurate trial results. Your trial team will review these criteria with you and answer any questions you have before you agree to join a trial.

Common Terms You’ll Hear

Clinical Site

The location trial visits will take place. It could be a doctor’s office, hospital, or research clinic.

Informed Consent Form

A document that provides important information about the study, its purpose, and the risks and benefits involved. This is shared as part of the screening process.

Trial Treatment

The new drug, vaccine, or other treatment being tested as part of the study.

Placebo

A placebo looks like a trial treatment but does not have the actual trial treatment or medication. It is used to help measure true treatment effects.

Institutional Review Board (IRB)

A group of experts made up of doctors, scientists, and community members who review and approve trial plans to ensure participant safety. 

Why participate in clinical trials

  • You will contribute to medical progress that can improve treatment for others.
  • Trials can often provide first access to new or cutting-edge therapies years before they are widely available.
  • You can expect to experience a professional clinical environment, be treated with compassion and respect, and have access to top quality care during the clinical trial.
  • In almost all instances, there is no cost to participate in a clinical trial, and many times patients also enjoy benefits such as compensation for time and travel.
22000+
clinical trials enrolling in the U.S.1
  1. Source: https://clinicaltrials.gov/about-site/trends-charts
Up Next

Your Safety is the Priority

Now that you know the basics, learn about the strict protections, oversight boards, and rights that keep every participant safe.
Saftey

Explore Treatment Areas

See if there is a study that matches your needs today.
Treatment Areas

Some information on this page has been adapted from the Center for Information and Study on Clinical Research Participation.

Clinical Trials 101 Hub

The 101 Overview

Master the basics. Learn what a clinical trial actually is, why they matter, and the common terms you’ll hear from your medical team.
You are here.

Your Safety First

Learn about the “checks and balances” in place—including the IRB and Informed Consent—that ensure you are protected every step of the way.
Read About Saftey

The Enrollment Journey

From the initial 2-minute survey to your first on-site visit, see exactly how the enrollment process works.
See How it Works

Discussion Guide

Don’t go in wondering. Use our curated lists to guide your conversations with doctors, insurance providers, and your family.
Discussion Guide

Want to stay in the know about upcoming 
clinical study opportunities?

Join Our Community