Whether you are a healthy volunteer or a patient volunteer, finding the right clinical trial for you can be quite a challenge. Thankfully, there are numerous ways in which to discover what clinical trials are going on in your area and which would be most suitable for your particular needs, wants and requirements. One of the most common ways in which people find out about suitable clinical trials is through their doctors. Since your doctor is already aware of your illness, they will usually be able to recommend the right clinical trial for you.

Whilst it is possible to participate in a clinical trial for money, which is usually the main reason why healthy people wish to contribute, for those seeking treatment for an illness or disease, it is worth carrying out some relevant research to find which trial will be most helpful. Clinical Trial Assistants provided by companies such as G and L Scientific, are nearly always required to act as the central contact for the clinical team. Making yourself aware about the usual procedures of clinical trials and learning about who is involved, such as CTA’s, will help you to make a more informed decision.

Finding Clinical Trial Information

There are two main sources that can help you find a suitable research trial. The first option are clinical trials matching services which are computer0based systems that accurately match patients with certain eligible studies. You can access such services online and usually at zero cost.

The second option available to you are clinical trial lists. These showcase a list of possible clinical trials according to a specific study of interest. Most lists will include study descriptions, patient eligibility and the relevant contact information for you to get in touch with the right people. You can find a clinical trial list such as this from www.cancer.gov.

Am I eligible?

Before wasting time applying for a trial that you are not eligible to participate in, you must take time to review the study protocol. This is a written plan of action that will contain important information such as the main goal and aim of the study, how the treatment will be given, how long it will last, how many people will be involved and what tests will be carried out etc.

Next, you need to find out if you meet the inclusion criteria. This outlines who is eligible to partake in the study whilst the “exclusion criteria” summarises who will not be eligible to participate in the clinical trial. Noted factors include stages of the illness, previous treatments, lab test results, existing medical treatments being used and the type of illness or disease etc.