Who is involved in a clinical trial?

Have you ever wondered who is behind the scenes making medical discoveries possible? Meet the people who make clinical trials happen.

People and their roles

Help for patients

The people who make clinical trials happen

It takes a lot of people to make clinical trials happen and each one plays an essential role. And without them, moving research forward would be nearly impossible. The incredible progress in healthcare is thanks to these people.

Clinical trial participants

Clinical trial participants are patients who volunteer their valuable time. They meet with the trial team and answer questions about their health. They undergo tests and procedures to help researchers learn more.

Caregivers

Caregivers and loved ones support people who enroll in clinical trials. They can come to clinical trial visits, listen, and take notes. And they help their loved ones stay on course in a trial.

Healthcare providers

A participant’s regular healthcare provider will be a part of their clinical trial journey. Participants will most likely continue to see their doctor throughout the clinical trial. Doctors will want to keep up to date with how their patient is doing. They will look out for medication changes and be on hand for consulting about their health.

Coordinators

In a clinical trial, clinical research coordinators are professionals who help schedule your visits, keep track of tests and lab work, and collect data from the study. These coordinators are usually highly qualified nurses and medical professionals.

Investigators

Investigators are doctors and researchers in charge of the teams that provide care in a trial. They answer questions and address concerns. The health of each person in a clinical trial is their priority.

Data and safety monitoring boards (DSMBs)

People on data and safety monitoring boards (DSMBs) review data at key points in a clinical trial. They look at safety, effectiveness, and trial conduct. They may suggest changes to a clinical trial to help keep people in the trial safe.

Help navigating clinical trials is only a call away

Did you know that PAN’s ComPANion Access Navigators are trained specialists ready to address your concerns and answer your questions about clinical trials? Call us, there is no charge. Whether you have questions about the trial process or need help finding possible clinical trials, our warm and knowledgeable team is here to help.

Learn more and call us for help

The clinical trial was started at a time when so many of my health issues were unknown. Since participating, those health issues have been addressed, monitored and taken care of with a treatment plan. The clinical research staff are very knowledgeable and always there when needed. It has been great to know that any health issue, big or small matters. Not only has it saved my life, but it’s helping others in the future.
— Sckiya, from Maryland