What are clinical trials?

Clinical trials are research investigations in which people volunteer to try out new treatments, interventions or tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage various diseases or medical conditions. Some investigations look at how people respond to a new intervention and what side effects might occur. This helps to determine if a new intervention works, if it is safe, and if it is better than the interventions that are already available.

Clinical trials might also compare existing interventions, test new ways to use or combine existing interventions or observe how people respond to other factors that might affect their health (such as dietary changes).

Participating in a clinical trial may provide you with access to the latest advanced treatment options for your condition

Clinical trials are conducted at major hospitals and other institutions across South Australia and are required to be conducted according to strict guidelines to ensure that the rights, safety and wellbeing of participants are protected.

Who can participate in a clinical trial?

Clinical trials rely on volunteers from the public to donate their time to participate in the trials.

Anyone who meets the eligibility criteria of a clinical trial can participate in the clinical trial. Clinical trials have inclusion and exclusion criteria, and you will only be able to take part if you meet all the criteria. For example, while some clinical trials test new treatments for diseases, others require healthy volunteers to participate.

Participation in a clinical trial is voluntary, and by choosing to participate, you will be contributing to advancements in scientific knowledge and improving health care in Australia and around the world. Your decision on whether to participate will not impact your treatment and the medical care you receive.

How can I find a clinical trial?

If you interested in participating in a clinical trial, please speak to your doctor for advice on whether there are any suitable trials that might be looking for participants.

You can also search for clinical trials listed on the websites below: