If you are thinking about taking part in a research study, someone has asked you to take part in a research study, or you are currently enrolled in a research study, you should know your rights as a research participant. You have the right to:
- Ask questions about the research study and have them answered to your satisfaction.
- Know why the research study is being done, what the research study procedures are that will be performed, and what you will be asked to do if you take part in the research study.
- Know the risks and benefits of the research study.
- Know what alternative treatments are available, should you decide not to participate.
- Continue with your current treatment plan and not take part in a research study.
- Know that your decision whether or not to take part in a study will not affect the medical care you receive from your doctor.
- Think about your decision whether or not to take part in a research study and talk with others about your decision without any influence or pressure from the study doctor or the research team before signing the informed consent document.
- Know if there are any costs associated with being in the study.
- Know if you will receive any payment or reimbursement for taking part in the study.
- Refuse to join a research study.
- Withdraw from the research study if new information becomes available that may affect your decision to continue.
- Contact your study doctor or the research team if you have any questions or concerns about the research study or your participation in the research study.
- Contact the Institutional Review Board (IRB) if you have any questions or concerns about your rights as a research participant.
- Know who will have access to your personal information and how your confidentiality will be protected.
- Receive a copy of the informed consent document that you signed.
