If there are potential side effects of the new treatment, you should be told about these 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 when the trial will take place. If travel to another facility, city, or state is required, 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 your care. On the plus side, the cost of the new drugs used in the trial is usually covered by the project's sponsor. You should also include in your calculations the costs associated with additional travel, hotels, meals, and parking that you may have to pay for when you take part in a clinical trial. Emotional Considerations Patients in clinical trials are often asked to make adjustments that have serious consequences for their feelings and attitude. For example, being part of a clinical trial may mean you will have to change doctors.