Participant guide
A practical guide for people considering research
Use this as a checklist while you read listings. Nothing here is medical advice, and nothing here replaces a conversation with your own licensed healthcare provider.
Reading a listing carefully
Look for the study type, the age range, the visit count, the location, and how long the study runs. If any of that is unclear, write it down as a question for the study team.
Questions worth asking
Who reviews this protocol? How many visits are there and how long is each one? What happens if I want to stop? Who do I contact with a concern? What happens to my information?
Planning your time
Check travel time, parking, work schedules, and whether any visit requires an overnight stay. Research works best when the schedule is realistic for you.
Talking with your own provider
Your own licensed healthcare provider knows your history. Ask them before you agree to take part in any study.
Keeping your records
Keep a copy of every document the study team gives you, including the consent form and the contact details for study questions.
Knowing what you control
Participation is voluntary from beginning to end. You may ask questions at any time and you may withdraw at any time.
Participant protections
What stays in your control
- Participation is voluntary from beginning to end.
- You may ask a study team any question at any time.
- You may withdraw from a study at any point.
- Independent ethics boards review study protocols.
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Any trial programs or research organizations that users may be introduced to through Trial Opportunity Desk are independent organizations operating under their own protocols and eligibility criteria. Trial Opportunity Desk does not control, supervise, guarantee, or take responsibility for protocols, eligibility criteria, safety monitoring, outcomes, or conduct of any independent clinical trial program. Users should review the materials provided by the independent organization and consult their own licensed healthcare provider before deciding to participate.