Reaching out to a study team can be a daunting prospect. That’s why we’ve put together a list of questions that will help you get the most from that conversation.
Checking if you’re eligible
The first step is to confirm if you’re eligible for the study. The study team will be able to tell you this.
You’ll find the study team’s details in the contact information section on the study webpage you’re interested in.
Starting with the basics
The research team will be able to talk you through the study’s aims and what’s expected of you.
Some questions to consider:
- What is the aim of the trial?
- How will it help people?
- What will I have to do if I take part?
- What treatment will I get if I don't take part?
- Where is it being held?
Understanding the risks and benefits
Every clinical trial has its own risks and benefits. It’s important you understand these before consenting to take part.
Some questions to consider:
- What are the possible side effects of my treatment?
- How may the treatment affect me physically and emotionally?
- Who can I contact if I have a problem? Will someone be available 24 hours a day?
- What extra tests or appointments will I have?
- Will I definitely be given the new treatment if I take part? Or could I receive an existing treatment, or no treatment at all?
- What plans are in place if anything goes wrong?
Your commitment and what it means
It’s important to ask the study team about what’s expected of you during the study so you can understand the impact taking part may have on your other commitments.
Some questions to consider:
- How long is the study expected to last? And for how long will I need to take part?
- How much of my time will be needed – including travel time?
- Will I need to take time off work?
- What will happen if I stop the trial treatment or leave the trial before it ends?
- If the trial is testing a drug, will I have to collect it from the hospital? Will it be sent to me by post? Or will I get it through my doctor?
- Will I need extra help from family and friends?
- Will the costs of my travel and parking be reimbursed?
- Will I have to fill in questionnaires or keep a diary?
What happens after the study
You may also want to know what happens after the study ends.
Some questions to consider:
- How long will it be before the results of the study are known?
- How will I find out about the results at the end of the study?
What to expect on a health and care research study
Before speaking to the study team, find out more about the process that most research studies take, and what you can expect before, during and after.
