Next, if there are potential side effects of the new treatment being studied, you should ask about them ahead of time, as well as any steps that will be taken for pain relief. A number of practical issues can come up when you participate in a clinical trial, so it's best to know beforehand what is required of you. This way, you'll have time to prepare yourself for what's ahead, and you'll have fewer uncertainties to contend with. First, you will want to know how long the treatment will take, what time commitment you will be required to make, and where the trial will take place. If you will need to travel to another facility, city, or state, it's good to know this and weigh the benefits of the trial against the potential drawbacks of increased travel.
Cost is often the next important factor for many patients.
Since most health plans do not cover experimental treatments, you may have to spend time and precious energy trying to get reimbursed for the care you get during the trial. You should find out whether your insurance covers the doctor and hospital fees associated with the clinical trial before you join it. On the plus side, the cost of any new drugs used in a trial are usually covered by the project's sponsor. You should also include in your calculations the costs associated with additional travel, hotels, meals, and parking you may have to pay for when you take part in a clinical trial. Lastly, you will also want to know whether you can have family members with you when you get treatment.