What to Expect as a Participant
Once our team is aware of your interest (either by a self-referral or from your physician) we will contact you. START will need you to have your medical records available for us so we can review your case. Some of these medical records may include imaging, pathology reports, and notes from your doctor.
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Pre-screen
The research team will review your medical records and insurance information to ensure you meet the general eligibility criteria for studies at our sites. If after this initial review you are deemed to be a good candidate, the team will work with you to schedule a new patient consultation appointment. You may also be told that it would be best to wait until a specific parameter or condition improves prior to coming to see us. This could be a lab result that is out of range or a line of conventional therapy that needs to be completed.
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Consult
At your first appointment with us, you will learn more about what clinical trials entail and review existing trials for which you may be eligible. If you are eligible to participate and decide to join the study, you must sign an informed consent that acknowledges you understand what will happen. It also identifies your rights and responsibilities – which includes the ability to leave the study at any time. This may be offered during your consult appointment, or you may come back for a subsequent visit when a slot on a study is available.
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Screening
After consenting is complete, patients enter the screening phase. During participant screening, researchers will check your medical history and conduct a physical exam to make sure you meet all requirements for joining the trial. Screening often includes specific lab tests, imaging studies or other activities deemed necessary by the protocol.
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Participation
If you qualify, your participation can begin. Researchers will provide detailed instructions on what you need to do at home, how often you’ll need to visit the trial site, and what will be required at the visits (e.g., physical exams, questionnaires, additional procedures). Your overall health and safety is continually monitored during the entire length of the study.
What to Expect as a Caregiver of a participant in a clinical trial
Supporting a loved one with cancer can be difficult. We at START aim to navigate participation in clinical trials for the participant and their loved ones to make it as easy as possible to receive care from our team.
Once we are aware of a patients interest, from a self referral or from a provider office, our team of highly skilled intake specialists will reach out to connect with you. START will request the patient to provide medical records, which a caregiver is often very helpful in organizing. If you are the caregiver of a patient with cancer and are interested in learning more, please submit a referral request and our team will contact you.
Time and Monetary Investment
Due to the wide variety of interventions and conditions, all trials have different timelines. Before enrolling, the research team will outline the specific amount of time you will be participating. It could be only a few months or a few years, depending on the condition, intervention duration, and study requirements.
In general, trial participants do not pay extra out-of-pocket costs for an intervention in a clinical trial. However, there are still routine patient care costs and coverage varies between insurance plans. Some participants may be responsible for copays and payments toward a deductible. Additionally, trials do not always cover expenses like travel, housing, transportation, parking, or meals. You will learn more about these factors during pre-trial screening.
Why Participate In a Clinical Trial at START?
01. Access to Groundbreaking Therapies
By participating in a clinical trial, you have the opportunity to receive investigational treatments that are not yet available to the general public. These therapies may offer new hope for our patients and oncology patients in the future.
02. Expert Care from Leading Oncologists
Our team of experienced clinical investigators and research staff are leaders in the field of oncology. They will provide you with personalized care and closely monitor your progress throughout the trial.
03. Expanded Treatment Options
Clinical trials often explore new combinations of therapies or novel approaches to cancer care. By participating, you may have access to a wider range of options that could potentially improve your outcome.
04. Supportive Environment
At START, we understand the vast number of challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis – both for you and your family. We provide a caring and compassionate environment where you can receive the individualized support you need while participating in a clinical trial.
05. Contribution to Medical Advancements
By participating in a clinical trial, you are contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge and helping future patients. Your participation may lead to the development of new therapies that can benefit others in the future.
CLINICAL TRIALS
Explore our Clinical Trials
If you are interested in participating in a clinical trial at The START Center for Cancer Research (“START”), we encourage you to reach out to us. Our team will guide you through the process, answer any questions you may have, and help determine if you are eligible for any ongoing trials.
BE PART OF THE JOURNEY
Learn more about clinical trial options close to home
Every breakthrough begins with awareness. The hope hub showcases all of START’s latest information on new clinical trials, expanded site locations, and research updates that could change lives. Stay informed, stay empowered, and take an active role in shaping the future of healthcare.
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Participant Information
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