How to talk to your doctor about clinical trials

Why talk to your doctor

Your doctor knows your health history and can help you judge whether a clinical trial makes sense for you.

They can explain how a study compares with your current treatment options and help you understand the eligibility criteria.

When to bring it up

Good times to ask are when you're first diagnosed, when a treatment stops working, or when you're deciding between options.

Some trials need people who haven't started treatment yet, so asking early can keep more options open. It's never too late to ask, though.

How to start the conversation

You can simply say: "I'd like to know whether a clinical trial could be an option for me."

Bring a list or links of studies you've found, including the study ID that starts with NCT. This makes it easy for your doctor to look up the details.

What to ask

Ask whether a trial is a reasonable option for you, how it compares with standard treatment, and whether anything in your history would rule you out.

You might also ask whether they know the study team, whether you can keep seeing them during the study, and who would be in charge of your care.

Getting a referral

Some trials accept patients directly, while others ask for a referral or medical records from your doctor.

Your doctor's office can send records to the study team with your permission. Specialist and academic medical centers often run many trials, and a referral there can open more options.

If your doctor is unsure

Not every doctor follows every trial, and that's okay. You can ask for a referral to a specialist, contact study teams yourself, or get a second opinion. The choice to explore trials is yours.

Browse related trials

• Lung Cancer trials
• Heart Failure trials
• Lupus trials

Quick answers

Should I talk to my doctor before joining a clinical trial?

Your doctor knows your health history and can help you judge whether a clinical trial makes sense for you.

When should I ask my doctor about clinical trials?

Good times to ask are when you're first diagnosed, when a treatment stops working, or when you're deciding between options.

What should I ask my doctor about a trial?

Ask whether a trial is a reasonable option for you, how it compares with standard treatment, and whether anything in your history would rule you out.

Do I need a referral to join a clinical trial?

Some trials accept patients directly, while others ask for a referral or medical records from your doctor.

Sources

• NIH — Clinical Research Trials and You: The Basics
• National Cancer Institute — Paying for Clinical Trials