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Becoming a Research Participant
Someday, you or a family member may want to take part in a research study. If this happens, the information here may help you make the right decision.
What Is Research?
- Research is a study that is done to answer a question.
- Scientists do research because they don't know for sure what works best to help you. They are working to determine the answer as to what is best.
- Some other words that describe research are clinical trial, protocol, survey, or experiment.
- Research is not the same as treatment.
Why Is Research Important?
Research has led to important discoveries that make our lives better. Some examples are:
- New drugs to treat cancer, diabetes, and other diseases
- Ultrasound, X-ray machines, and diagnostic tests
- Vaccines
- Ways to stop smoking
- Improved medical procedures
These are some questions that you should ask before you agree to participate in a research study:
- Why is the research being done?
- What question are you trying to answer?
- What will be done to me as part of the research?
- How will I benefit from the research?
- What other options do I have?
- Could the research hurt me?
- Have other studies like this one been done?
- What will the researcher do with my information?
- Will the research cost me anything?
- Who pays if I'm unexpectedly injured in the study?
- How long will the study last?
- What do I have to do as far as office visits, medications, medical tests?
- What happens if I decide to leave the study early?
- Who should I call if I have a question about the research?
Points to Consider:
- A research study may or may not help you personally.
- In the future, the results could help others who have a health problem.
- Taking part in research is voluntary.
Before you decide to become a research volunteer, get the facts:
- Know what you're getting into.
- Ask questions.
- Learn as much as you can.
- Know the pros and cons.
For more information, please contact Kim Devine, Manager Clinical Research, at 215-710-4585 or @ kdevine@stmaryhealthcare.org
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