“Learn From
Yesterday,
Live For Today,
Hope For
Tomorrow.
The Important
Thing Is Not
To Stop
Questioning.”
— ALBERT EINSTEIN
Questions To Ask Your Doctor About Clinical Trial Treatments
About The Trial:
• What is the purpose of the trial?
• Why do the researchers believe that the treatment being studied may be better than the one being used now? Why may it not be better?
• How long will I be in the trial?
• What kinds of tests and treatments are involved?
• How will the doctor know if the treatment is working?
• How will I be told about the trial’s results?
• How long do I have to make up my mind about joining this trial?
• Who can I speak with about questions I have during and after the trial?
• Who will be in charge of my care?
• Is there someone I can talk to who has been in the trial?
About Risks and Benefits:
• What are the possible side effects or risks of the new treatment?
• What are the possible benefits?
• How do the possible risks and benefits of this trial compare to those of the standard treatment?
About Your Rights:
• How will my health information be kept private?
• What happens if I decide to leave the trial?
About Costs:
• Will I have to pay for any of the treatments or tests?
• What costs will my health insurance cover?
• Who pays if I’m injured in the trial?
• Who can help answer any questions from my insurance company?
About Daily Life:
• How could the trial affect my daily life?
• How often will I have to come to the hospital or clinic?
• Will I have to stay in the hospital during the clinical trial? If so, how often and for how long?
• Will I have to travel long distances?
• Will I have check-ups after the trial?
About Comparing Choices:
• What are my other treatment choices, including standard treatments?
• How does the treatment I would receive in this trial compare with the other treatment choices?
• What will happen to my cancer without treatment?
