Medical Research FAQ’s

Should I Skip Flu Vaccination This Year?Clinical trials and research studies are the US FDA regulated process by which medications, treatments, or medical devices are assessed, primarily for safety and efficacy. By participating in a trial you’re not only getting help for your health issues but you’re helping the future of medicine.

Here are some of our most frequently asked questions:

  • What is a research study?
  • What are the benefits to participation?
  • Why should I volunteer for a research study?
  • How am I protected in a research study?

Medical Research is one of the ways new medical treatments, devices and medications are tested and approved for use by the FDA. Trials typically compare a treatment, medication or medical device against no treatment or a placebo (pill that has no effect). This is part of the FDA approval process for new medical treatments. If you’ve ever been prescribed medication, a medical device or a medical treatment then a medical research study has benefited you. Pharmaceutical companies, non-profit organizations, university medical centers and government organizations fund medical research studies. These all help pave the future of healthcare. One of the most recent examples of medical research in action was the COVID 19 crisis. Due to the streamlined process where multiple pharmaceutical organizations and governments worked together to tackle the task of creating a COVID 19 vaccine, it was done in record time. Medical research exists to help prevent, treat and cure ailments and diseases.

What is a Research study?

A Medical Research study is a clinical research study that studies a medical device, medication, or treatment. These studies are used by the FDA in the United States to approve of new medical treatments, medications and devices. A study may consist of multiple groups testing a medication, treatment and placebo to see what the results are and if the results warrant approval as a new medical treatment. If you’ve ever taken medication, you’ve benefited from medical research.

What are the benefits to participation?

As well as receiving treatment, research participant volunteers receive compensation for their time and travel. Most studies include a physical exam, laboratory tests, ECG Blood pressure tests, and other appropriate diagnostic procedures.

Why should I volunteer for a Medical Research study?

If you qualify, you may receive access to new medications as well as treatment, and compensation for time and travel. Most studies include a physical exam, laboratory tests, ECG blood pressure tests, and other appropriate diagnostic procedures. Medical Research treatments are provided at no cost. Insurance is not needed. If patients qualify to participate, their is also compensation for time and travel.

How am I protected in a medical research study?

International Review Boards are in place to ensure that participating individuals are correctly treated. Accredited organizations are in place to ensure that all participants are safe and well taken care of. During the entirety of the study, participants receive regular doctor visits and their health is monitored.