What to Expect When Joining a Clinical Trial

Clinical trials are often described as the bridge between medical discovery and real-world care. Every medication, therapy, or medical device we use today went through clinical research before becoming available. Yet for many people, the idea of participating in a clinical trial can feel confusing or even intimidating.

That’s why we’ve created this guide, to walk you through what the process looks like, step by step, and to show you that you’re never alone. Clinical trials are carefully designed to prioritize your safety, respect your time, and give you a chance to make a meaningful contribution to the future of medicine.

Step 1: Screening & Eligibility

The first stage is all about making sure the study is the right fit for you. You’ll meet with the research team for a health screening, which may include:

• A review of your medical history

• Physical exams

• Laboratory tests or bloodwork

• Questions about your lifestyle or current treatments

This isn’t a test you need to “pass”, it’s a safety measure to ensure that the study is appropriate for your unique situation. If the study isn’t a good fit, the team may be able to guide you toward another study that could be.

Step 2: Informed Consent

Before anything moves forward, you’ll go through a process called informed consent. This is a detailed conversation where the research staff explains:

• The purpose of the study

• What your participation will involve

• The potential benefits and risks

• Your rights as a participant

You’ll also receive written information you can review at your own pace, and you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions. The decision to join is entirely yours. Signing the consent form doesn’t lock you in—you can withdraw at any time, for any reason.

Step 3: Study Participation

Once you decide to join, your participation begins. Depending on the study, this could involve:

• Attending scheduled visits at the research site

• Health check-ins where doctors and staff monitor your progress

• Taking an investigational medication, a placebo, or continuing with standard care (depending on the study design)

Every step of the way, your health and safety come first. The staff tracks your well-being closely and makes adjustments if needed.

Step 4: Ongoing Care & Support

One of the most reassuring parts of clinical trials is that you’re never alone in the process. A dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and coordinators will:

• Answer your questions at any time

• Provide care if you have side effects or concerns

• Keep you updated about each stage of the study

Many participants say this extra layer of attention makes them feel more supported than they expected.

Step 5: Compensation for Time & Travel

We understand that your time is valuable. Many studies offer compensation for your participation, which may cover:

• Travel expenses

• Time spent at study visits

• Other related costs

These details will be explained clearly during the consent process so you know exactly what to expect.

Why Participation Matters

Joining a clinical trial is about more than your own experience, it’s about contributing to something bigger. By volunteering, you help:

• Researchers discover new care options

• Doctors better understand how treatments work

• Future patients access therapies that might not exist otherwise

Every treatment available today exists because people like you chose to participate in clinical research.

Final Thoughts

Participating in a clinical trial is a personal choice, and one that deserves clarity and support. From screening to compensation, each step is designed to protect your safety, respect your time, and ensure your voice is heard.

Whether you’re considering joining for access to a potential new care option, to support medical advancement, or simply to learn more, your role is invaluable.

👉 Want to see if you qualify for one of our studies? Click here to get started.

👉 Still curious? Explore more resources on our blog to learn how clinical trials are shaping the future of care.