Services Offered to Individuals
Services
Offered to Our Investigators
Lifespan Research Foundation offers individuals opportunities to
take part in clinical trials of every variety. The following guidelines
provide an overview of the many benefits and qualifications of participating
in a Lifespan study.
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What is a clinical trial?
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A clinical trial is a scientific study to determine the effectiveness
of a new medication or procedure. It compares the exact effects
and safety of a new treatment with those of the existing standard
treatment to determine whether the new treatment can provide superior
results. To the participant, a clinical trial is much like a regular
visit to a healthcare facility or doctor's office, with greater
personal attention.
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Who is eligible?
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| Each trial is designed to answer specific questions, so you will
be asked to fill out a questionnaire regarding your health status,
age and other factors. If you meet the eligibility requirements for
a clinical trial, you will be notified and given specific scheduling
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What are the benefits and risks?
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When you participate in a clinical trial, you will receive a comprehensive
physical examination, including extensive laboratory tests and specialized
examinations. These are free of charge and not routinely available
to the public. You will receive close, one-on-one attention from
a team of medical professionals. And your participation may lead
to finding better ways to treat the conditions under study. You
may also receive monetary compensation.
Every medical procedure and treatment, whether a clinical trial
or medication from your own doctor, has side effects. Every effort
will be made to assure that side effects from your study are kept
to a minimum. To avoid potentially undesirable side effects, it
is imperative that you fully disclose your current health status
as well as all drugs and medications you are taking, whether prescription,
over-the-counter, or recreational.
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What is the admission process?
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| When you apply to participate in a clinical trial, you will be asked
to fill out a detailed questionnaire and undergo a complete physical
examination and laboratory evaluation. You may also receive specialized
tests such as an echocardiogram and holter monitoring (to evaluate
heart function), pregnancy test, HIV/AIDS test and physical stress
test. These tests are performed at no cost to the participant. If
you are found to qualify, you will be asked to sign an Informed Consent
Form, indicating that you understand your rights and the specific
requirements of the study. |
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Medications
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When you are accepted for a clinical trial, you will be given a
regular schedule of treatment and medication that must be followed
precisely. You must disclose all medications you are currently taking,
including aspirin and/or Tylenol, cold or cough medicines, etc.
You will be expected to bring all study medications with you every
time you visit the clinic.
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Payment
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| You will generally be compensated for your participation in a Lifespan
clinical trial. The amount of payment and the payment schedule will
be fully disclosed in your Informed Consent Form. All payments will
be made by check and paid to you directly when you come to the clinic.
Checks will not be mailed. |
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