A clinical trial is a research study where doctors test new treatments to see if they are safe and effective. These treatments might be new drugs, new combinations of treatments, or new ways of delivering care. Trials help improve cancer care for future patients.

Each trial has eligibility rules based on:

• Your type of cancer
• The stage of your cancer
• Your age, health history, and past treatments Your doctor or nurse navigator can help check if you qualify.

Yes. Clinical trials are closely monitored by:

• Safety boards (called IRBs)
• Your medical team
• National guidelines You’ll be watched carefully, and you can leave the trial at any time if you’re uncomfortable.

Rarely. In cancer trials, most patients get either:

• The standard treatment
• The new treatment being tested Placebos (inactive treatments) are usually only used with standard care—not by themselves.

You can:

• Ask your oncologist
• Visit clinicaltrials.gov
• Use Cancer GPS’s trial resources Some hospitals also have research coordinators who help match patients to trials.

The trial drug or treatment is usually free. But you may still have to pay for:

• Regular doctor visits
• Lab tests
• Scans Check with your insurance company and the trial team to understand what’s covered.

Yes. You can leave a trial at any time, for any reason. Your care team will help you find another treatment option if needed.

Your safety is protected by:

• Review boards (IRBs)
• Safety monitors
• Your care team They check for side effects and make sure the trial follows strict rules.

By joining a trial, you help researchers learn more about cancer and improve treatments for future patients. Your participation can make a difference in someone else’s life.

Sometimes. It depends on the trial’s rules. Some trials allow patients who have already started treatment, while others require you to join before treatment begins. Ask your doctor if any trials are still an option.