Clinical Trials

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The Basics of Participating

A clinical study is conducted according to a research plan known as the protocol. The protocol is designed to answer specific research questions and safeguard the health of participants. It contains the following information:


  • The reason for conducting the study

  • Who may participate in the study (the eligibility criteria)

  • The schedule of tests, procedures, or drugs and their dosages

  • The length of the study

  • What information will be gathered about the participants

The above information is provided by the center for information and study on clinical research participation (CISCRP), a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the public and patients in the clinical research process ciscrp.org/. Information also provided by clinicaltrials.gov, a service of the National Institute of Health. Additional resources for information and frequently asked questions about clinical trials for patients and their families can be found at: