Clinical trials are a regulated, step-by-step process that undergo approval from Health Canada before they can be conducted. This means that the process is safe and supported, having undergone ethical reviews and extensive other trials before they can start.

All patients that participate in a clinical trial first undergo an informed consent visit, where the full process of the trial are explained to you by our team at the Colchester Research Group. From there, it is your choice whether or not you want to continue to participate.

All patients must also meet eligibility criteria, meaning they fit within the specific age, gender or medical guidelines required for participation in the trial. It’s important to note that even if you are ineligible to participate in a certain trial, you may fit within the criteria for another!

Clinical trials usually take place in four phases (I, II, III and IV). A new treatment, vaccine or medical device must be safe in one phase to move on to the next. With each phase, the number of patients who participate, as well as the length of time it is studied and variation of patients increases.

Depending on the study you are eligible for, you may be required to make different numbers of visits during the study. Normally, patients undergo a:

• Screening visit: to determine their eligibility and go over informed consent for the trial

• Baseline visit: where the patient receives their study medication

Routine study visits: visits made to track the progress of the patient and perform regular check ups

All participants within our clinical trials will be compensated for their time and travel. These amounts vary depending on the study you are participating in. Any study medication or care provided to you for the duration of your participation in the clinical trial is also free of charge.

Benefits

• You may receive effective care or treatment for your condition before it is available to the public.

• Increased medical care with more frequent check ups

• Immediate access to doctors and nurses as required

• Compensation for study participation

• Improved understanding of your current health condition

• Contribution to medical research in Canada and beyond

Risks

• Treatment may not be as effective as intended

• Potential side effects, as with any medical treatment

Researchers analyze all of the study findings and data, which is kept entirely confidential and private. This information is then analyzed by doctors and physicians, and used to inform new medical practices or regulations.