People should know as much as possible about the clinical trial and feel comfortable asking the members of the health care team questions about it, the care expected while in a trial, and the cost of the trial. The following questions might be helpful for the participant to discuss with the health care team. Some of the answers to these questions are found in the informed consent document.
What is the purpose of the study?
Who is going to be in the study?
Why do researchers believe the new treatment being tested may be effective? Has it been tested before?
What kinds of tests and treatments are involved?
How do the possible risks, side effects, and benefits in the study compare with my current treatment?
How might this trial affect my daily life?
How long will the trial last?
Will hospitalization be required?
Who will pay for the treatment?
Will I be reimbursed for other expenses?
What type of long-term follow up care is part of this study?
How will I know that the treatment is working? Will results of the trials be provided to me?
Who will be in charge of my care?
Do you feel as though your questions were adequately answered when deciding on participating in a clinical trial?