Three steps from interest to enrolled.
No jargon, no forms-for-the-sake-of-forms. Here's exactly what happens after you decide to look at a trial.
Screening
Every trial has eligibility criteria — age, medical history, current health, diagnosis. You'll go through a short screening (online, by phone, or in person) so the team can confirm whether the trial is a match. Not everyone who is screened qualifies, and that's normal.
Informed consent
If you qualify and want to continue, you'll be asked to give informed consent. That means you've reviewed the details — what will happen, your rights, and your ability to leave the study at any time, for any reason — and you're choosing to take part.
Enrollment
Once consent is signed, you're officially enrolled. You'll meet with the research team to walk through the schedule, procedures, and any prep needed for your visits.
Before you say yes
Questions worth asking.
Bring this list to your screening call. A good study team will welcome every one of these.
- What is the main goal of the study?
- What procedures, tests, or treatments will I undergo?
- How do potential benefits, risks, and side effects compare to my current treatment?
- Will participation impact my daily activities? How long does the study run?
- Is there compensation for related expenses or long-term follow-up care?
- Who manages my care during the trial, and will I receive results?