Metropolitan Clinical Research Center
For volunteers

Why take part?

Learn what a study involves before you decide to join.

Illustration of a health checklist beside a heart and pen

What is a trial?

A clinical trial is a research study with people. Researchers test whether a treatment, procedure or medical device is safe and works as intended. They may also compare it with a treatment already in use.

Before you join

Benefits and risks

Possible benefits

  • Access to treatments still being researched.
  • Care from healthcare professionals and researchers.
  • A more active role in decisions about your health.
  • A contribution to future medical care.

Possible risks

  • Treatments may cause mild or severe side effects.
  • A treatment may not work for everyone.
  • Visits and treatments may require travel and time.
How to join

Start with a conversation

  1. Illustration of a telephone and a speech bubble

    Contact the team

    Call or use the contact form to ask about a study.

  2. Illustration of two chairs facing a small table

    Discuss the study

    A coordinator explains the study and talks with you about its requirements.

  3. Illustration of a consent checklist and a pen

    Review the consent form

    Your study doctor reviews the details and answers your questions before you sign.

Illustration of a consent checklist and a pen

Make time for questions

Ask about the study visits, possible risks and how participation may affect your daily routine. You can discuss the information with your regular doctor before deciding.

Keep a copy of your questions for the conversation with the study team. Asking about a trial does not commit you to joining.

Questions and answers

Before you decide

Can I keep my doctor?

Yes. You can keep seeing your primary healthcare provider during a trial. A study does not replace your regular care. Keep your doctor informed about your participation.

How is my privacy protected?

Personal and medical information collected during a study is kept confidential. Authorized research staff follow protocols to protect it.

Can I leave a study?

Yes. Taking part is voluntary. You can leave at any time, for any reason, without a penalty or an effect on your future medical care.

What does participation cost?

Ask the study coordinator about costs and any reimbursement for the study you are considering.

Do I need health insurance?

No health insurance is required to take part in a study.

Find a study.

Read the study details, then call our team with your questions.

See open studies