FOMAT

Everything you need to know about clinical trials

Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments, medicines, or medical approaches to see if they are safe and effective. They help doctors and scientists improve patient care and find better ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases.

Understanding clinical trials

Clinical trials are research studies that involve people and are designed to answer specific questions about medical treatments, vaccines or devices. They help doctors understand how safe they are and how well they work for people who live with certain conditions. 

When you join a clinical trial with FOMAT, you are helping to improve care for future patients and for your own community. You are part of a team, not just a number.

How clinical trials work

In simple terms, this is what usually happens:

You meet with a research team to talk about your health, your medical history and any questions you have.

If there is a study that might fit you, the team explains it in detail and reviews an informed consent document with you.

If you decide to join, you follow a visit schedule that can include check-ups, tests and questionnaires.

Doctors and nurses monitor your health closely during the study and share important information with you. 

Joining a clinical trial is always your choice, and you can leave at any time, for any reason.

Frequently asked questions about clinical trials

Will I still see my regular doctor ?
In many cases, yes. Your regular doctor can continue to care for you while you are in a study. We encourage you to talk with your doctor about any clinical trial you are considering so both teams can support you.
Each study has its own inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria, which are medical rules that define who can safely take part. These can include age, diagnosis, lab results or other health conditions. The research team reviews these details with you and lets you know if a study is a good match.

Clinical trials must follow strict ethical and regulatory rules to protect participants. Before a study starts, it is reviewed by an ethics committee and by regulatory authorities. The study team must follow a written plan that explains how participants will be monitored.
As a participant, you have the right to
• Receive clear information about possible risks and possible benefits
• Know what other treatment options are available outside the study
• Stop participating at any time, for any reason, without penalty
If you decide to leave a study, the team will guide you on safe next steps for your care.

Joining a clinical trial with FOMAT does not have a cost for you. Study related visits, tests and the investigational medication are covered by the study, and you do not need health insurance to take part.
Yes. Participation is always voluntary. You can decide to stop at any time if you feel uncomfortable, if your situation changes or simply if you change your mind. The team will talk with you about how to do this safely and what your options are after you leave the study.
Your privacy is protected by law. Your information is stored securely and is usually coded so that your name is not used in study reports or publications. Only authorized members of the research team, sponsors and regulatory bodies are allowed to review your data, and always under strict confidentiality rules.
When your participation ends, the team reviews your results and can share information that is relevant to your health. You return to your regular medical care. In some cases, if the treatment proves to be safe and helpful, there may be options to keep receiving it. This depends on each study and is always explained in advance.

Read real patient stories and see if a clinical trial could be right for you