Search for Trials

A short guide

This is a short guide to participating in a trial. Before you proceed, you may want to scan the short glossary of clinical trial terms commonly used.

1. Selecting a trial

If you are a healthy volunteer or a patient interested in participating in a trial, you will first need to select a trial. We recommend that you search for a trial using our search tool, by 1) entering your health status, 2) selecting a condition (if you are interested in "patient trials"), and 3) entering the first few (2-3) digits of your postal code. Then click on "search" and browse the results.

If you identify a trial which you think may be suitable for you, click on the 'Register for this trial' button. Your contact details will be forwarded to the appropriate investigator site, where a clinical research professional will look at your details and eventually contact you.

2. Being contacted by the investigator site

If you are contacted by an investigator site, you will be asked a few questions, to determine if you fit the "inclusion and exclusion criteria" of the trial. You may be asked about your medical history, age, height, weight, etc. It is not critical if you cannot answer these questions.

If you fit the characteristics of the trial, you may be asked to visit the site for a "screening visit".

3. The screening visit

The screening visit is the second step toward determining if you fit the criteria of the trial. During the screening visit there may be some minor initial tests and you will have the opportunity to discuss your medical condition in detail, and be informed about the details of the study. These details should also be presented to you in written form.

Only after you understand the details of the trial and have been informed of its risks, benifits and possible alternatives do you need to decide if you would like to participate.

4. Informed Consent

If you decide to participate, you may be asked to sign an "informed consent form", which states that you have been adequately informed and consent to possible treatment. Signing the informed consent form does not mean that you are bound to participate in the study. But neither does it guarantee that you will actually take part in the trial.

5. Your first visit

If you consent to participation and pass the screening, you may be scheduled for a first visit. This is when the trial actually starts. Congratulations - at this point you are participating in the clinical research process!

6. Completing the trial

If you have made it this far, you should put every effort into completing the study. Not only is it beneficial to you, you are also helping others who have not had the possibility to participate.

After your final visit, please come back to ClinLife to share your experience with others!

A short glossary of common clinical trial terms

Investigator - the physician (doctor) performing the trial
Site - the location (hospital, clinic, medical practice) where the trial is taking place
Screening Visit - a first visit at a site, where your eligibility for the trial is determined
Informed Consent Form - a form you sign stating that you consent to treatment and have been informed of the associated risks, benefits and alternatives
Patient Trial - a trial designed for patients with conditions, rather than healthy individuals
Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria - the demographic, medical and lifestyle criteria that must be met in order to be eligible for a specific trial