THERE IS REASON FOR OPTIMISM ABOUT EXPERIMENTAL TREATMENTS



No investigational treatment advances to clinical testing unless there is evidence indicating it will be as good as or better than currently available treatments.

 

Participants receive a high standard of care.

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All participants receive regular care related to the study and opportunities to talk to study staff. Research shows that people involved in studies tend to do somewhat better than people in a similar stage of their disease who are not enrolled, regardless of whether the experimental treatment works. Scientists believe this advantage may be due to the general high quality of care provided during clinical studies.

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If you choose to participate in a clinical trial you often receive EXTRA medical care, and it is usually free or offered at very  a low cost. Some expenses may even be reimbursed. Some patients with little or no health insurance can improve medical care by participating in clinical trials. Keep in mind that the care provided by researchers should not replace regular visits to your primary care-provider. Think of this extra care as supplemental, not a substitute.

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Some people feel more in control over their condition when they seek out the latest treatments. For these individuals, participation is a way to ensure they have explored all possible avenues of treatment for their condition.

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Every clinical study contributes valuable knowledge whether or not the treatment works as hoped.