Similarly, randomized studies are the only way to select the optimal therapy from among several good therapies. In many instances, randomized clinical trials are the standard of care. All research studies of IBMT are under the supervision of an Institutional Review Board, which consists of a group of physicians and laypersons who review each study to guarantee that the interests of the patients are protected. Nevertheless, patients should never feel coerced to participate in a clinical study. If you decide not to participate in studies proposed to you, you will receive the same high standard of care from IBMT physicians and nurses as patients who elect to participate.
Patients can receive excellent care without ever being part of a research study.
Even if you choose not to participate is any studies, IBMT will still collect data on your therapy, your response and the outcome of the treatment. IBMT is under the obligation to submit outcome data to several agencies. In fact, IBMT was among the first four programs in the country to obtain accreditation from this prestigious body. If you have remaining questions or concerns, please discuss them with the IBMT physician, clinic nurses, or the transplant coordinator. The patient advocate is the person with the specific role to protect your interests.