FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Curiosity is encouraged. We know there may be some questions. Below you will find answers to some of our most frequently asked questions, as well as additional information to help you make a decision. If you would like more information, please reach out, someone on our team will be happy to help.
I HAVE HEARD THAT CLINICAL TRIALS ARE ONLY OFFERED TO PEOPLE AS A LAST RESORT. IS THIS TRUE?
No, Clinical Trials are not just for people with no other options. The studies we conduct here at GMRI are for all kinds of different people in different situations, and with different conditions.
DO I HAVE TO PAY OR DO I NEED INSURANCE?
No, most study visits do not charge any fee's to you or your insurance. On the contrary, most studies will offer compensation for your time, travel and effort in helping research progress.
IF I JOIN A CLINICAL TRIAL, WILL I GET THE SAME LEVEL OF CARE THAT I RECEIVE WITH MY DOCTOR?
The care people get in a clinical trial is usually excellent. People in trials often say that the trial doctor and staff watch them more closely, and are given more attention than at their own doctor. This is because we must follow strict guidelines and often include extra tests and visits to ensure safety and track any changes.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I WANT TO DROP OUT?
While we hope that all people who enter a study intend to complete it, you can discontinue at any time. Your participation in any clinical trial is completely voluntary. You can end your participation at any time by notifying us. You will be asked to return all study medication, and come to the office for a final visit, if at all possible.
WHAT IS A "PLACEBO-CONTROLLED STUDY"?
A placebo, also known as a sugar pill, is often used in clinical trials as a comparison to determine if the drug being studied is actually effective. By having some of the people take a placebo, we are able to more accurately determine if improvement is due to the medication being studied, or is due to the natural course of the problem being treated. You will not know whether you are on the placebo or on the study drug, nor will the study doctor or staff. Your chances of receiving either are random and assigned by a computer. Regardless of whether you receive the placebo or study drug, the quality of care you receive will be equivalent.
IS IT SAFE TO PARTICIPATE IN A CLINICAL TRIAL?
At GMRI, we conduct Phase II-IV trials, meaning that the the treatments we are using have already been tested on small groups of people for safety. Some of these trials are on already existing/approved treatments, but they show promise for a different condition, so they need to be tested before they can be prescribed for this new condition. Participants receive very careful medical attention by our study Doctors and medical staff to ensure their safety and well-being; usually even more attention than that of a regular Doctors Office. We are also subject to strict guidelines and oversight from Ethical Review Boards, as well as the FDA.
Why Participate?
Whether you want more information, are interested in alternative treatments for a condition, would like to receive a second opinion, or simply want to assist in the evolution of science, you are helping build medical therapies that may someday offer better treatments for a variety of illnesses. The studies we are conducting involve people of all types, with a wide range of conditions.
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Participants that join a study:
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Are seen by Board-Certified Physicians
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Receive quality care and attention for specific diagnosis' as well as study related exams (including blood work), that one might not otherwise recieve
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May receive treatment
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There are no costs to you, & there is no insurance necessary. You may receive compensation for your time and travel during participation.​
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We start new studies regularly, so if you would like to participate, but don't see a study for you, please reach out.
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Still have questions? Reach out to us here. Someone on our team would be happy to answer any questions you might have.
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Clinical research today, for a healthier tomorrow.