Questions to Ask

Before joining a clinical trial, it is important for you and your family members to ask questions before deciding to participate.

What is the purpose of the study?
What kinds of tests and treatments are involved?
How do the possible risks, side effects, and benefits in the study compare with my current treatment?
How might this study affect my daily life?
How many visits per week or month will I need to make?
How long will the study last?
Is a hospital stay required?
Who will pay for the treatment?
Will the trial, or my insurance, cover all or part of it?
Will I be reimbursed for any expenses such as transportation?
What type of long-term follow-up care is part of this study?
How will I know that the treatment being studied is working?
Will the results of the trial be given to me?
Who will be in charge of my care?
Are there other experts I can talk to about this study?
Can I take the informed consent form home to talk it over with my family?