Q: What are clinical trials?
A:Clinical trials are the primary way for
researchers to determine if potential research treatments are safe
and effective. Clinical trials typically involve some sort of
intervention such as a drug, a vaccine, device, or procedure and a
series of assessments to measure specific outcomes in the
participants. Every clinical trial is led by a principal
investigator at each investigative site. The principal investigator
is often a medical doctor, and is supported by a research team that
may include doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals.
Q: Why would someone participate?
A: Joining a clinical trial is voluntary
and a very personal decision. Some participants choose to join a
trial because it allows them to receive an investigational drug or
vaccine that is researched for a specific disease. Some patients are
motivated by the idea that their participation contributes to
research that could change lives globally and help people struggling
with the effects of this disease. When considering participating,
the most important thing is ensuring you are fully informed of the
trial process and that participating is in your best interest.
Q: If I'm thinking about participating,
should I tell my doctor?
A: Absolutely. We always recommend that
you involve your doctor in any medical decisions you make to ensure
it is in your best interest and health.
Q: How do I know if I can join a clinical
study?
A: All clinical trials have guidelines
that determine who can participate; these are called eligibility
criteria. The factors that allow you to participate in a clinical
trial can include age, gender, the type and stage of your disease,
previous treatment history, and other medical conditions. For more
information about whether you are eligible for
this study, please schedule time to speak with a member of the Leapcure
Patient Success team.
Q: Are clinical studies safe?
A: An Institutional Review Board (IRB) or
Ethics Committee (EC) reviews clinical trials to ensure appropriate
steps are taken to protect the rights and welfare of individuals
participating in clinical research. All research presented is
approved by the IRB/EC. It is important to bring any specific
concerns to the site when they contact you as they have access to
other information about the study.
Q: Will I be reimbursed for expenses
associated with participating in clinical trials?
A: You may be compensated for reasonable
travel expenses. For more information about this, including possible
compensation per visit, the coordinator at the site (where studies
take place) is going to be your best resource.
Q: What are the possible side effects of
a clinical trial vaccine?
A: This will depend on the specific
study. For more information about this, the coordinator at the site
(where studies take place) is going to be your best resource.
Q: Who is Leapcure? Is Leapcure running
the study?
A: Leapcure does not conduct clinical
research, but we support clinical trials through patient outreach
and site (where the study takes place) assistance. In addition, we
partner with patient advocacy groups and serve as a liaison between
patients, sites, and study sponsors to ensure the best possible
experience for patients. In other words, we serve as your point of
contact and help connect you with the site where the study is taking
place.
Q: How did you get my information?
A: You submitted your information through
our questionnaire advertised digitally across numerous websites.
Q: When will the clinical trial start?
How can I learn more?
