Should I participate in a research study?
Becoming a Research Volunteer: It's Your Decision

What should I consider before participating in a research study?

You should know as much as possible about the study and feel comfortable asking the research members of the health care team questions about it, the care expected while in a study, and the cost of the trial. The following questions might be helpful for you to discuss with the health care team. Some of the answers to these questions are found in the informed consent document.

• What is the purpose of the study?
• Why do researchers believe the new treatment being tested may be effective? Has it been tested before?
• Who is going to be in the study?
• What kinds of tests and treatments are involved?
• How do the possible risks and benefits in the study compare with my current treatment?
• How long will my participation in the trial last?
• Will hospitalization be required?
• Will results of the study be provided to me?
• Who will pay for the treatment?
• Will I be reimbursed for other expenses?
• What type of long-term follow up care is part of this study?
• Who will be in charge of my care?
• How will I know that the treatment is working?
• How might this trial affect my daily life?

• Should I participate in a research study?
• What is a research study?
• Are there any benefits and/or risks to being in a research study?
• Who pays for clinical research?
• What are my rights if I take part in a study?
• What should I consider before participating in a research study?
• What is informed consent?
• How is the safety of the study participant protected?
• What is an Institutional Review Board (IRB)?
• Mayo Clinic’s Institutional Review Board (IRB)
• PDF Version (4 MB)