Clinical Trials

Clinical trials provide new treatment concepts and help in research to advance medical science. Our research focuses on helping develop and improve cancer biomarkers, which are used to detect cancer, define targeted therapies for the treatment of cancer and identify genetic links to cancer. We have a dedicated research nurse who works with trial patients and oncologists to coordinate treatment and investigative therapies.

What You Should Know

• Clinical trials are voluntary, and participants can withdraw at any time.
• It is important to fully understand the risks and benefits before joining a clinical trial.
• Patients may not be eligible for certain clinical trials.
• A doctor may remove a patient from the trial if it is in the patient’s best interest.
• The medications, doses and schedules are under investigation, and unknown side effects can occur.
• Following specific guidelines for post-trial testing is essential.

Questions to Ask Before Joining a Trial

• Am I eligible to participate?
• How does the clinical trial treatment differ from standard care?
• What are the pros and cons of participating?
• Why do researchers believe this new treatment might be effective?
• Has this protocol or any parts of it been previously tested?
• Who is conducting the trial?
• What are the possible treatment side effects and can they be relieved?
• Will insurance cover the costs?
• What are my other treatment options?

 Call our clinical trial research nurse at 816-691-5195 for more information.