What to Ask the Research Site

Contacting a research site to let them know you are interested in a clinical trial will start a conversation between you and the research staff that will go on to explore your eligibility for that specific trial.

These are some of the questions you may want to ask the research staff about the trial in which you are interested. You should know the answers to all of these questions before you decide to enroll in a trial.

Remember: You should feel free to ask any question or bring up any concern with members of the research staff.

The Clinical Trial

• What is the purpose of this clinical trial?
• Why do doctors think the approach may be effective?
• Who is sponsoring this trial?
• Who can participate in this trial?
• What are the eligibility requirements?
• How long will the trial last?
• Can I talk to other people in the trial?
• What are the "results to date?"
• How much time do I have to decide whether to enter this trial?
• What is the long-term follow-up care?
• What happens if I was doing well on the drug? Can I keep using it while the manufacturer seeks FDA approval?

Risk and Benefits

• What are the possible short-term benefits?
• What are the possible long-term benefits?
• What side effects might I experience?
• Are there treatments to alleviate side effects?
• Are there any potential long-term risks?
• How do the potential benefits compare to other treatment options?
• How will the trial and its possible side effects affect my daily life?
• Who will review the information collected during the trial?

Trial Participation Requirements and Care

• Will I be hospitalized? If so, how often and for how long?
• What tests, procedures, and treatments will I have during the trial?
• How do these tests, procedures, and treatments differ from those I would have if I didn't take place in this trial?
• Where will these tests, procedures, and treatments be done?
• Who will do them?
• What will my responsibilities be if I participate?
• Will I still see my own doctor on a regular basis?
• Who will monitor my care and safety?
• What support will be available for my caregivers and me during the trial?

Cost Issues

• Will my heath insurance company cover any or all of my costs?
• If so, how much?
• Will I have to pay for tests or the study drug or anything else?
• If so, what will the charges be?
• Who can answer questions about what my health insurance will cover?
• Will there be any travel costs that I will be responsible for?
• Will there be childcare costs that I need to consider?

Some of the information on this page used or adapted with permission from "Questions to Ask Your Doctor" by the Coalition of Cancer Cooperative Groups.