STAT Research has a wide variety of people who volunteer for clinical research studies and just as many reasons why. Here are some of the most common reasons why patients join a study.
Early Access
Some patients fail to achieve satisfactory treatment with the current standard-of-care medications. This happens for a variety of reasons, such as an intolerance to or lack of efficacy. Additionally, patients may develop resistance or drug antibody which limits the benefits. In these situations, a patient may participate in a clinical research study to gain early access to investigational treatment options.
Little or No Insurance
Clinical research can offer an additional treatment option for those who have inadequate coverage, or no insurance. Also, the cost associated with insurance deductibles, co-pays, and prescriptions can be a financial burden. Since clinical research studies most often pay for study medications, exams, and lab work, this can be a low or no-cost alternative.
Altruists
Many of our patients know its common for medical conditions to run in the family. Because of this genetic predisposition, their children and grandchildren are at risk to suffer from the same ailments. For this reason, patients volunteer in a clinical research study.
Compensation
Most clinical research studies offer a stipend, travel reimbursement, or other compensation for those who enroll in a study. Although it varies from study-to-study, it is spelled out in the informed consent form provided to patients. Stipends can vary based upon numerous factors, such as the time commitment of the patient and the study phase. Those who participate will receive their stipends after each completed visit.
Study Risks
Just like any medical treatment option, clinical research studies have a degree of risk associated with them. The degree of risk varies based on numerous factors such as the type of trial, the phase of the study, the condition it’s treating, the patients’ medical history, amongst others. Patients are encouraged to speak with our clinical research team member to fully evaluate the risk. Our team will explain the study’s design, medications, treatment arms, and the known risks associated with the study medications or procedures. There are also other factors to consider which are addressed in the informed consent. Participants are also offered time to ask the Investigator questions regarding the study. To learn more about the research process, including the informed consent process, click here.
An additional risk to some patients is the possibility of being assigned to a placebo treatment group. Although these are typically for a very limited time, it could cause some issues with some patients. Learn more about placebo groups, and how they work in this article.