How to Become Involved in Medical Research Studies
Look up local trials in a database., Contact nearby hospitals and universities., Watch for advertisements posted around town., Consider the costs of the trial.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Look up local trials in a database.
There are many reputable websites that are used by researchers to identify potential volunteers.
These databases can help you find trials based on your location, medical history, gender, age, and risk factors.
The following websites are reputable sources for clinical trials:
Clinicaltrials.govResearchMatchCenterWatch -
Step 2: Contact nearby hospitals and universities.
Visit the websites of any nearby medical research departments or facilities attached to local hospitals.
You can also call these places or visit them in person.
If there is a specific study you are interested in joining, contact the principal investigator.
Otherwise, look for a research coordinator at the facility to volunteer yourself as a general participant. , If you live near a major research center, university, or hospital, you may be able to find medical advertisements put up locally.
Keep an eye on the posters found on buses, subways, and taxis.
Read the bulletin boards at your local coffee shop.
By being constantly on the lookout, you may find a trial that works for you.
They may even be advertised on TV. , Some trials offer monetary compensation, and most will provide some level of free health care.
That said, there may be many hidden costs in the trial.
Cost of transportation:
Some trials may be able to cover your transportation costs while others will expect you to pay for it.
If the trial is close by or does not require travel, this will not matter.
That said, if the trial is far away, you may have to pay substantially for treatment.
Cost of health care:
While the researchers will most likely cover any tests or medications that are directly required for the study, you may need additional care that is not compensated. -
Step 3: Watch for advertisements posted around town.
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Step 4: Consider the costs of the trial.
Detailed Guide
There are many reputable websites that are used by researchers to identify potential volunteers.
These databases can help you find trials based on your location, medical history, gender, age, and risk factors.
The following websites are reputable sources for clinical trials:
Clinicaltrials.govResearchMatchCenterWatch
Visit the websites of any nearby medical research departments or facilities attached to local hospitals.
You can also call these places or visit them in person.
If there is a specific study you are interested in joining, contact the principal investigator.
Otherwise, look for a research coordinator at the facility to volunteer yourself as a general participant. , If you live near a major research center, university, or hospital, you may be able to find medical advertisements put up locally.
Keep an eye on the posters found on buses, subways, and taxis.
Read the bulletin boards at your local coffee shop.
By being constantly on the lookout, you may find a trial that works for you.
They may even be advertised on TV. , Some trials offer monetary compensation, and most will provide some level of free health care.
That said, there may be many hidden costs in the trial.
Cost of transportation:
Some trials may be able to cover your transportation costs while others will expect you to pay for it.
If the trial is close by or does not require travel, this will not matter.
That said, if the trial is far away, you may have to pay substantially for treatment.
Cost of health care:
While the researchers will most likely cover any tests or medications that are directly required for the study, you may need additional care that is not compensated.
About the Author
Stephanie Allen
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