At Premier Urology Group, research is a vital component of our program. Research studies, or clinical trials are designed to find cures for diseases and disorders. They offer advances in the treatment of diseases and promising new drugs.
What is a Clinical Trial?
Clinical trials have guidelines on who can participate. A volunteer must qualify for the study, based on factors such as age, gender, and health.
Who Can Participate in Clinical Trials?
A clinical trial is a research study that investigates the effectiveness of a treatment. Clinical Trials are conducted in a series of steps, called phases, each phase designed to answer a separate research question.
All clinical trial are approved by an independent Institutional Review Board (IRB). The IRB is an independent group of individuals comprised of medical, scientific, and lay members who ensure the protection of the rights, safety and well being of subjects in a clinical trial.
What Questions Should I Ask Before Choosing to Participate?
- How long will the study last?
- Where is the study being held?
- What is the study trying to find out?
- What exams, tests, and treatments will I have?
- How will patient safety be monitored?
- How does this study compare to my current treatment?
- Do I have to pay for any part of the trial?
- Who is sponsoring the trial?
- Can I terminate my participation in the trial?