Clinical Research Information for Patients
What is clinical research?
Clinical research refers to studies in which people volunteer to participate in order to advance medical knowledge and the approach to healthcare.
Why is clinical research important?
The purpose of a clinical research study (also known as a clinical trial) is often to develop and deliver new approaches to healthcare that advance the safety and effectiveness of treatment for a specific disease or health condition. Some people participate in clinical trials because standard (approved) treatment options have not worked for them. Others participate in clinical trials because they want to contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge that will improve the lives of future patients.
Who conducts clinical research?
Clinical trials at Mount Carmel are led by a team of health experts that include your care provider as well as dedicated clinical research specialists (nurses, research coordinators, administrators). As your trusted health partner for life, our goal is to seamlessly integrate your research experience as part of your greater healthcare journey.
Your safety is our top priority. To that end, every clinical trial at Mount Carmel is reviewed by independent members of an Institutional Review Board (IRB) to ensure your (1) safety and (2) protection of privacy and rights in accordance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and applicable regulatory requirements.
How can you participate in clinical research at Mount Carmel?
Participation in clinical research is voluntary. If you are interested in participating in clinical research at Mount Carmel, discuss with your physician about what opportunities are available.
All clinical trials have guidelines, called eligibility criteria, about who can participate. The criteria are based on factors such as age, type and stage of disease, previous treatment history, and other medical conditions. Your eligibility to participate will be evaluated by your physician.
To learn more about clinical trials currently offered at Mount Carmel, contact a research specialist at the Mount Carmel Research Institute by email (mcri@mchs.com).