Frequently Asked Questions
Clinical trials are research studies that investigate the safety and effectiveness of new/existing medical treatments. These trials are crucial for advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care, with participants gaining access to potentially ground-breaking treatments.
Clinical trials play a crucial role in the development of new medications, as mandated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Before gaining approval for use and distribution within Australia, treatments are required to undergo several phases of thorough clinical trials. Trials are conducted following strict scientific and ethical standards to determine whether a new approach is more effective than existing ones.
Clinical trials are designed with a strong emphasis on participant safety, however, there is always a risk of side effects when using medications (or vaccine). At Australian Clinical Research Network, we conduct mainly Phase 2 and Phase 3 studies. This means that treatments being studied have already gone through a Phase 1 study establishing preliminary safety results of the investigational product.
While there are inherent risks, the clinical trial process is designed to minimise them. Our dedicated world-class team monitors your health at every step, providing comprehensive oversight. Moreover, all our trials strictly adhere to international and Australian regulations, receiving approval from independent ethics committees to ensure participant safety. Furthermore, participants are thoroughly guided through an informed consent process, which outlines any specific risks associated with the trial.
Yes! Participants in clinical trials have the right to withdraw at any time, for any reason, without facing any negative consequences. This decision is entirely voluntary and does not impact your medical care. If you choose to withdraw from a trial, it's advisable to communicate your decision to our team to ensure a smooth process. They can provide information on the implications of withdrawal and address any concerns you may have. Your well-being and autonomy are prioritised throughout the clinical trial process.
Participating in a clinical trial offers a meaningful chance to contribute to global advancements in healthcare. Participants may also gain access to ground-breaking medical therapies at no cost. As clinical trials monitor the health and safety of participants every step of the way, you will receive a comprehensive medical examination from our team of doctors and nurses for free.
Clinical trials play a crucial role in investigating safe and effective treatments, vaccines, and interventions for a range of diseases. They offer valuable insights into the efficacy, appropriate dosage, safety, and behaviour of drugs within the human body. These trials also contribute to our understanding of how drugs interact with existing therapies and help identify optimal administration methods, such as comparing a pill to an injection.
Every medication, including ground-breaking developments like COVID-19 vaccines and cancer treatments, undergo clinical trials for approval. The overarching goal of these trials is to enhance patient outcomes across a spectrum of diseases.
Yes and no. Generally, trials seek healthy participants for enrolment. However, trials investigating specific treatments, such as osteoarthritis or eczema studies, may require participants with particular illnesses. If you have inquiries regarding your eligibility for a trial, or wish to inquire about upcoming trials addressing a specific illness, feel free to reach out to our team at contactus@acrn.com.au or 02 8347 0645.
No - all we require from you is a form of photo ID. This could be a driver's license (Australian or foreign) or a passport. You also do not need to have the right to work in Australia if you are interested in participating in a trial as all participants are volunteers, and this is not classified as work. If you have any specific questions give us a call on 02 8347 0645 or email us at contactus@acrn.com.au.
Yes! As participants are volunteers, you are not ‘paid’ but are instead reimbursed for your time and travel. This amount is determined by the pharmaceutical companies responsible for the investigational therapy, and may differ between studies. Typically, reimbursement ranges from $80-150 per visit.
No, participation is free but there may be personal costs associated with travel, parking and time spent. However, participants are reimbursed at each visit.
