If you have never participated in a clinical trial before, you likely have a ton of questions. No worries – we’re happy to answer any questions or address any concerns that you may have. For more on what to expect when you sign up for a clinical trial, click here. To learn more about clinical trials, click here.

• What is a clinical trial?
  • A clinical trial is a process set up to approve medication that is not yet on the market. Many treatments and medications currently available are the result of past clinical trials. 

• What is an informed consent? 
  • An informed consent is a document that gives every participant an overview of the trial and the risks that are associated with the participation in the trial. The informed consent process is completed before any study related procedures are performed. 

• Do I get compensated? 
  • Compensation varies from trial to trial. Ask your GMI Study Coordinator for you trials compensation. 

• Do I need insurance? 
  • No, you do not need insurance to participate in clinical trials. Even if you do have insurance, you insurance will not be charged. 

• How often do I have to come in to the clinic?
  • While some trials are only 3 months long, other can be as long as 2 years. Talk to your GMI Study Coordinator to get the timeline for you study of interest. 

• What are the risk?
  • Every trial has risks, these will be outlined to you in what is called an informed consent. 

• What is a placebo? What are my chances of getting the placebo?
  • A placebo is a harmless medication that is made to mimic the investigational product. The use of a placebo is to determine whether the investigational product works better than a standard medication. The chances of receiving placebo vary between trials. Ask your local GMI site about your specific trial. 

• Can I stop the trial if I feel the medicine is not working? 
  • Yes, you are allowed to terminate your participation in the trial at any time for any reason. 

• Do I have to pay for the treatment? 
  • No, all study costs are covered by the sponsor of the trial. 

• Will my information be public? 
  • No, your information is only known to the site that you are a subject at. Your name and all confidential information are never told to the sponsor of the trial. 

• Why should I participate? 
  • Clinical trials are important to the field and advancement of medicine globally. Your participation in a clinical trial helps to find out new treatments for various diseases and conditions. With your participation you can make a lasting impact for generations to come.