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

What is informed consent?

Federal rules mandate that study participant informed consent be obtained and properly documented before a participant is enrolled in a study. In most cases the participant must sign and date a detailed informed consent form. Informed consent forms are written in understandable language. Mayo Clinic is committed to making sure that every research participant has a good understanding of their study. An informed consent form provides details about:

• The purpose of the study
• Which clinical procedures and laboratory tests will be used
• How long the study will last
• Whether you will be asked to allow biological samples to be stored for future research, such as blood and tissue samples
• The risks and benefits of the study
• Treatments other than the experimental one that are currently available for your illness
• The dollar amount, if any, you will receive for participation
• Compensation for study-related injury
• Expected costs of tests and procedures and who will pay for them
• Confidentiality of health information
• Whom to contact with questions

• 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)