Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are health-related research studies that determine how a new medication or treatment/intervention will work in people. They help advance medical care and evaluate new treatments that may improve patient outcomes. All of the treatments we use today for macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and other retinal diseases are available as the result of past clinical trials.
Participants work closely with our experienced research team of physicians, nurses, technicians, and ophthalmic photographers. They are typically assigned to either a study treatment group or a control group receiving the current standard of care.
Clinical studies rely on participation from people of diverse backgrounds to ensure treatments work for a broad range of patients.
Safety
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) must approve the study before a treatment can be tested on humans. It must first be proven to be safe in laboratory and pre-clinical testing.
Clinical trials advance through four phases to test a treatment, find the appropriate dosage, and look for side effects. If, after the first three phases, researchers find a drug or other intervention/treatment to be safe and effective, the FDA approves it for clinical use and continues to monitor its effects.
Participation Benefits
- Beneficial Treatment – Being the first to receive a potentially helpful treatment not yet available to the general public.
- Covered costs
- Monetary compensation may be offered in some studies.
- Transportation services and/or financial stipends may be offered to assist with the costs of travel to and from the study locations.
- Costs of study-related examinations, tests, and treatments are usually covered by the study sponsor.
- Thorough Examination – During the study, participants receive extensive examination and follow-up from the physician and staff.
- Help Future Patients – Participants are involved in an important process that could lead to new treatments to help future patients.
- Protection – Participants are protected by federal safeguards in the study protocols.
Deciding to participate in a clinical study is a personal choice, and our team is committed to helping you make an informed decision. For more information, contact research@retinadoctors.com.
About Our Clinical Trials
Retina Associates of Cleveland, Inc (RACI) physicians and staff have been dedicated to developing and evaluating new and promising treatments for retinal diseases since 1979. Our research team is involved in some of the most advanced research being conducted in retina today. RACI is known worldwide for its expertise in retinal studies. We strongly believe that our patients should have access to the newest therapies available. This means offering the option of participation in clinical research.