Guides
Guides to clinical studies
Plain-English guides to how studies work, what to expect and what to ask. Each one lists its sources and the date it was last reviewed.
What to know before joining a clinical study
Clinical studies test new medicines, devices and approaches to care.
Read the guide ›Are paid clinical trials safe? How compensation works
Some clinical studies pay participants for their time.
Read the guide ›What happens at a screening visit
A screening visit checks whether a study is a good fit for you before you start.
Read the guide ›Clinical trial phases explained
New medicines are tested in people in four phases, each larger than the last.
Read the guide ›Informed consent and your rights
Before you join a study, the study team must explain it fully and get your agreement.
Read the guide ›Clinical trial glossary
The words you'll see in study listings and consent forms, explained in plain English.
Read the guide ›