Your clinical trial journey: a step-by-step checklist
The whole path from finding a trial to leaving one, as a checklist: eligibility, your doctor, first contact, screening, consent and taking part.
6 min read · Informational only, not medical advice.
1. Find trials
- Browse recruiting studies for your condition and city.
- Save the study ID (NCT number) of each one that looks promising.
- Check each study's locations and how often you'd need to travel.
Read more: How to join a clinical trial
2. Read the eligibility criteria
- Check the age range and other basics first.
- Note any inclusion or exclusion criteria you're unsure about to ask later.
- Don't rule yourself out too quickly — the study team makes the final decision.
Read more: Why was I excluded from a clinical trial? · Understanding clinical trial phases
3. Talk to your doctor
- Share the studies you found.
- Ask whether a trial fits your treatment plan.
- Ask whether your doctor can share records with the study team if needed.
4. Make first contact
- Have your diagnosis, medications and location ready.
- Call or email the study contact using the listing's details.
- Write down who you spoke with and what they said.
5. Go to the screening visit
- Bring your medication list and any recent test results.
- Bring a support person if you'd like.
- Ask what tests will be done and when you'll hear back.
Read more: What happens at a clinical trial screening visit?
6. Review informed consent
- Read the consent form, and take it home if you need time.
- Ask about risks, costs, placebo and who to call with problems.
- Sign only when your questions are answered.
Read more: What is informed consent? · Placebos in clinical trials: what it means for you · Do clinical trials pay? Compensation explained
7. Take part in the study
- Keep a calendar of visits.
- Report side effects or changes to the study team right away.
- Keep your own doctor informed.
Read more: Are clinical trials safe? Risks and benefits · Your rights as a clinical trial participant
8. Leaving a trial
- Remember you can leave at any time, for any reason.
- Tell the study team so they can help you stop safely.
- Ask what follow-up care you'll have and whether results will be shared.
Read more: Your rights as a clinical trial participant
Browse related trials
Quick answers
- What is the first step in joining a clinical trial?
- Browse recruiting studies for your condition and city.
- What should I do before calling a study team?
- Have your diagnosis, medications and location ready.
- What should I bring to a screening visit?
- Bring your medication list and any recent test results.
- Can I leave a clinical trial?
- Remember you can leave at any time, for any reason.
Sources
Ready to look?
Browse recruiting trials