At any given time, there are hundreds of thousands of clinical research studies in progress around the world. Each study seeks better ways to prevent, diagnose or treat certain medical conditions. ENA’s nationally recognized Clinical Research Center conducts a wide range of studies regarding kidney health, hypertension, diabetes, and many other conditions.
Studies are crucial to improving medical care. They answer questions about the safety and effectiveness of potential new medications, treatment options or devices, and must be completed before even the most promising new treatment can be prescribed to the public.
No study is possible without patient participation. It’s important to test medications or devices with the people they are intended to help, so studies may require patients who match specific criteria such as previous treatment history and medical conditions.
Some studies involve people with certain diseases or medical conditions while others target healthy volunteers. Each study has a specific set of criteria to help identify the right participants. Examples include age, gender, current medical treatments and medical conditions.
Your doctor can suggest a study for you to consider or you can volunteer for a study on your own. Just let us know if you’re interested in participating at research@easternnephrology.com or you can call us at 252-633-9262, Option #2. Our research team will provide you with information regarding studies currently available and answer any questions you may have.
Before you participate in a trial, our research team will outline known potential risks, benefits and other aspects of the study. If you decide to participate, you will be asked to sign an Informed Consent Form. This form will provide details regarding the study and outline what will be expected of you during the study, as well as what you can expect from us.
The Informed Consent Form is NOT a contract – its purpose is to protect you, not to bind you. You can withdraw from a study at any time for any reason.
The health and safety of volunteers is of utmost importance in every clinical study. Our research team will follow strict ethical and scientific protocols. All studies are regulated through the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is reviewed, approved, and monitored by an independent panel of qualified doctors, researchers, and members of the community known as an Institutional Review Board. This review board makes sure your rights, safety, and welfare are protected, and that the study is being conducted properly. Throughout the study, you will have regularly occurring appointments with your research team enabling them to address any concerns you or they may have.
Studies can vary in how they are conducted but will include regular trips to one of our offices to visit with the research team. Most volunteers find the studies rewarding even though they may take more time than your normal treatment. Aside from possible additional clinic visits, you should be able to maintain your normal daily lifestyle. Some studies may also compensate you for time and travel.
If you or someone you know is interested in participating in one of our exciting trials, or you are interested in learning more, please fill out the form below, or contact us at research@easternnephrology.com or 252-633-9262, Option #2.
