Information for patients

As a patient you may have questions about clinical studies. You will find many of these answered in the following pages in our survey of clinical studies from the patient perspective.

Table Of Contents

• Why run clinical studies?
  Clinical studies expand our knowledge of certain illnesses and can improve the chances of curing them.

• Why participate as a patient in clinical trials?
  Participation in a clinical study can have a number of advantages for the patient. These range from free medication to more intensive care by specially qualified doctors.

• How can I find out about current studies relevant to my illness?
  Information on clinical studies is available from a number of sources. These include the relevant periodicals, patient groups or the Internet.

• In which hospitals and practices are studies conducted?
  Contrary to popular belief, clinical trials are conducted not only in larger universities but can also be accessed through private practices.

• What about safety?
  Rules for conducting studies are laid down by national legislation. Parallel to this there is a body of international regulations that everyone conducting clinical studies is obliged to observe (ICH-GCP).

• What should I discuss with my doctor?
  Regardless of how you heard about a study and irrespective of whether you finally decide to participate in it you will probably have a number of questions that you need answered in order to make a responsible decision.

• How do I find a study or a doctor conducting trials?
  CSG may be able to help you find a particular study or a doctor carrying one out.