What questions should I ask about joining a clinical trial?

The National Cancer Institute suggests asking about a clinical trial in a few groups of questions. Start with the trial itself. Ask what its purpose is, and why researchers think the treatment being studied might be better than standard treatment. Ask why it might not be. Ask how long you would be in the trial, and who would be in charge of your care.

Next, ask about risks and benefits. Ask about the possible side effects, the possible benefits, and how both compare to standard treatment. Then ask about your rights as a participant. Find out how your information is kept private, and what happens if you decide to leave the trial partway through.

Costs matter too. Ask which expenses you would be responsible for, what insurance or the study would cover, and who can help with insurance questions. A trial can also change your routine. Ask how it might affect your daily life, including travel and any hospital stays.

Finally, compare your options. Ask what your other treatment choices are, including standard treatment. Ask what would happen if you chose no treatment at all. Weighing the trial against your other choices, rather than on its own, is often the most useful step before you decide.