Research studies has always been an important aspect of health development. How to improve the quality of life using better medicines. Finding out the best possible ways to get the medicine consumed to get better advantages. Time to time through research studies and various programs have been launched to test new medicines and their aftermath before launching that in stores.

What is a research study? It is scientific ways to develop new health care for humans.

A research program is always in need of potential volunteers already affected and can prove a good match for clinical trial of their medicine.

Taking an example of Mary collins, a medical research volunteer. Mary Collins, a type 1 diabetes patient for almost half her lifetime, living in Mountain rest S.C. Mary lacked a medical insurance and hence the disease, though manageable, proved costly and was an unpleasant experience for the 55 year old lady. Like every other patient who hate their medication, Mary also hated when she had to inject herself with insulin shots ahead of every meal.

Luckily she hopped at a chance to volunteer for an industry-sponsored research trial designed to test an undelivered inhaled insulin device, for a year. The benefits were so that Mary couldn’t say no, she got to try insulin inhale device and get rid of insulin shot. Also Mary was provided free medical supplies, travel expenses were reimbursed and she was paid $1200 for the entire duration. After 6 months, she dropped out concerning her blood glucose levels fluctuation to a drastic degree. On being asked if she would like to try volunteer again, the old lady shows agreement.

Mary Collins is an example of positive research trial,which was ethical in nature. Though not all are the same, many people die in such research trials due to unethical practices. No trial is risk free, unethical or ethical doesn’t matter, serious risks are always involved.  

Now, if you ever come upon  chance to volunteer for a research trial, these are some tips you should never forget to consider:

Understand the researcher’s goal

A doctor’s sole purpose is to help you get better, unless they are wearing a researcher’s cap. A researcher’s main aim is to ensure scientific and ethical integrity of a medical experiment. Many research is not aimed to cure you, some might have adverse affect on you. So, do not agree unless you know the effect of the experiment on you.

Know how participation will alter your health care

Before agreeing for participation, ask yourself how this medication differs from the one you usually receive. Researchers are required to provide at least standard health care to their volunteers, whether they receive experimental treatment or not  

Anticipate the risk

Some research studies involve minimal risk, others are almost deadly. In these cases, health risk is not the only risk involved. You should be knowing who has an access to your medical profile. For example, if you’re a HIV patient you wouldn’t want an unauthorized person to identify you.

Consider the benefits

Research on therapeutic treatment are aimed to help the participants, in contrast, non-therapeutic treatment care very little to cure participants health. You should be knowing what you’re opting for and taking in consideration your health, take chances to opt for one.

If it’s beneficial, go for it. If it’s not, chances are of degrading your health.

Don’t get stuck with a whooping bill

Most of medical researches are industrial or government funded and the participant is never asked to pay anything. Also, research facilities pay them for volunteering. So, if they talk about any charges that you re suppose to pay, don’t consider opting for it.  

Know your motivation

Why are you volunteering for this? Better know the answer before opting for it. Are you opting to volunteer for free medical care and health benefit or is it simply the money that’s attracting you.

Tags:Clinical research volunteers