Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Participating in a Clinical Trial – Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Anyone considering participation in a Clinical Trial should take some time talk to the research team about your concerns. Sometimes it is helpful to bring a family member of friend with you. They can help you write down the answers to your questions. Come prepared with a list of your questions, but don’t hesitate to ask new questions as they arise. Here is a list of possible questions you may want to ask when deciding to participate in a clinical trial.

Questions about the study:

• Why is this study being done?
• Why do researchers think this study is right for me?
• Who has reviewed and approved this study?
• How are the study results and safety of the participants being checked?
• Who is the sponsor for this study?
• How many patients have participated so far?

Questions about the possible risks and benefits:

• What are the possible short-term and long-term benefits?
• What are the possible short-term and long-term risks?
• How is my safety protected during the study?
• What other treatments could I get if I don’t participate in this trial?
• What will happen to my cancer with or without this treatment?
• How do the risks and side effects of this trial compare with the standard treatment?

Questions about participation and care:

• What kinds of tests and treatments are required for this study?
• Will the treatment hurt, and if so, for how long?
• How do these treatments and tests compare to those I would have outside of this trial?
• Can I still take my regular medications while on this trial?
• How long does the study last?
• Where will I receive my medical care?
• Who will be in charge of my medical care?
• Will I have to stay in the hospital during the study? If so, how often and for how long?
• How will I be checked after the study?

Personal Questions

• How will this study affect my day to day life?
• Will I lose my hair?
• Can I speak with other people participating in this study?
• Is there anything I’m not allowed to do while on the trial?
• Who will be allowed to see my medical records?
• How long do I have to make up my mind about joining this study?

Financial Questions (also see “Who pays for the Costs of Patient Care on Clinical Trials?”)

• Will my insurance cover my being in the study?
• Will I have to pay for the treatment drugs or study procedures?
• Will I have extra costs because of the study requirements?
• Who can I talk to about what my insurance will cover and the approximate remaining cost?