Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are composed of a series of three phases. Data and results from each phase and each participating individual are compiled and used in diagnosis, areas and approaches of prevention, and exploring advanced and alternative treatment options. If given the opportunity, I would inquire about participation in a randomized clinical trial. The fortuity of directly affecting the health and well being of anonymous individuals, advanced, high quality medical treatment, and opportunities that may otherwise be inaccessible are realities when participating in a clinical trial (Unknown, 2012). When assessing the benefits and risks of a clinical trail, several of the latter may serve as points of dissuasion. Risks accompany every situation, from surgery to medications, and athletics to simply crawling from between the sheets in the morning. As an individual, it is our responsibility to review the possibilities and outcomes and make an informed decision.

Participating in a clinical trials allows patients the opportunity to be administered promising new treatment methods unavailable elsewhere. Using these treatment options could provide the patient with benefits to aide in establishing an advanced treatment plan for their disease or symptoms. As a "test subject", experiencing these results is one individual closer to finding a cure for cancer or a treatment plan to prevent Alzheimer's. The ability to contribute to the health of your children or grandchildren, even people you will never know nor come in contact with is an opportunity that will rarely present itself. All clinical trials are protected by protocol and strinct guidelines and regulations benefiting the patient's rights and safety. Hospital accreditation also plays a major role in protecting patients confidentiality and rights. An IRB (International Review Board) composed of medical specialists, ethicists, socials workers, and community members analyze the details of the trial in depth to protect both the patient and reputation of the scientists and hospitals involved. The Joint Commission must also approve the trial for safety and responsibility (DHHS, 2012). Participants are also provided informed consent and given the opportunity to remove themselves from the trial at anytime.

The protection and opportunities that are provided through clinical trials provide a safe environment for helping yourself today and succeeding generations. The high quality of care and ability to contribute to society and medical research ensures a step closer to the cure and the prevention.

Department of Health and Human Services, (2012). Are clinical studies for you?. Retrieved from National Institutes of Health Clinical Center website
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Unknown. (2012). Pros and cons of clinical research. Retrieved from [Only admins are allowed to see this link]

I feel that you have good information in your post, Morgan. I feel that it is good information to know. I kind of felt that you didn’t take a big enough stance on saying whether you would participate or not. You never really came out and said whether you would or not. But I do feel it was a very professional post and well done. Good job Morgan.