Everything You Need to Know About Paid Clinical Trials & Research Participation
At Health Research of Hampton Roads (HRHR), we’re here to answer your most common questions about paid research studies and help you understand what to expect as a clinical research participant.
If you’re interested in learning about future study opportunities, sign up to stay informed:
What Is a Clinical Trial?
A paid clinical trial is a research study to evaluate potential new treatments, medications, or medical devices. These trials are essential in determining the safety and effectiveness of new therapies before they become widely available.
Some clinical trials compare existing treatments to see which is more effective, while others test new drugs for conditions like asthma, diabetes, or high cholesterol.
At HRHR, our paid research studies provide participants access to study-related medical care at no cost while offering compensation for time and travel.
Who Conducts Clinical Trials?
Clinical trials are conducted by pharmaceutical companies (Pfizer, Moderna, Merck etc.), research institutions, and healthcare providers. Each study follows strict scientific and ethical guidelines to protect participants.
At HRHR, all clinical research participant studies are approved and monitored by an Institutional Review Board (IRB)—a panel of medical professionals, legal experts, and community representatives who review research protocols to ensure patient safety.
Why Should You Participate in a Paid Clinical Trial?
People choose to participate in paid research studies for many reasons, including:
- Access to study-related medical treatment at no cost
- Care from experienced, board-certified physicians and research professionals
- The opportunity to learn more about your health and medical condition
- Helping advance medicine and improve treatment options for future generations
- Compensation for your time and travel
Becoming a clinical research participant allows you to receive expert care while contributing to life-changing medical advancements.
How Do You Qualify for Clinical Research?
Each clinical trial is designed to answer specific research questions, meaning not everyone qualifies for every study. Eligibility is determined based on factors such as:
- Your age and medical history
- Any current medications you’re taking
- Whether you have a specific medical condition being studied
If you are interested in a paid research study, a brief medical evaluation will determine your qualifications. If you don’t qualify for one trial, you may still be eligible for future studies.
What Happens During a Clinical Trial?
Participating in clinical research is like a regular doctor’s visit, with a few additional steps:
- Initial Screening: A research coordinator will explain the study and review your medical history.
- Informed Consent: You’ll receive detailed information about the study, potential risks, and benefits.
- Physical Exam & Testing: This may include blood tests, urine samples, ECGs, or other assessments.
- Study Participation: If you qualify, you will receive either the investigational treatment or a placebo, following a schedule of in-office visits and follow-ups.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Physicians and research staff will check your progress and ensure your safety.
At any point, you can ask questions or withdraw from the study if you decide participation is no longer right for you.
Are There Risks Involved in Clinical Research?
All medical treatments, including those tested in paid clinical trials, carry some risk. Before you participate, the Informed Consent Form will outline:
- Potential side effects and risks
- The purpose of the study and how the treatment works
- Your rights as a clinical research participant, including the ability to leave at any time
No paid research study is conducted without strict ethical oversight, and all research follows FDA guidelines to prioritize participant safety.
What Happens After the Trial Ends?
Once the clinical trial is complete, the HRHR team ensures you have:
- Answers to any questions about your participation
- Information about the availability of the trial medication in the future
- A plan for continued medical care, either with your primary doctor or through referrals
Our goal is to ensure every clinical research participant leaves feeling informed, supported, and appreciated.
How Do I Learn More About Paid Research Studies Near Me?
If you’re interested in participating in clinical research, HRHR makes it easy to learn more:
- Call us at: (757) 591-8100 or text: 757-300-1102
- Visit us in Newport News, VA
- Check out our latest trials & see if you qualify.
Our team is happy to answer any questions and guide you through the process. Whether you want to participate for personal health benefits, compensation, or to help advance medical research, you can make a difference!
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