The truth about clinical trials: presenting the facts for healthcare providers

Perception: Clinical trials are only for patients who have exhausted all treatment options.

Reality:
Clinical trials are available for patients across stages of their cancer journey, including newly diagnosed patients, those receiving treatment, or those in remission.¹

Perception: Placebos are commonly used in oncology trials, and patients may receive no treatment.

Reality:
Most phase III clinical trials compare new investigational/research/study treatments with the standard of care.²

Perception: Only large academic medical centers have access to clinical trials.

Reality:
The landscape of clinical research has evolved. Phase III clinical trials are more likely to be offered in local community hospitals and doctors’ offices.²

Perception: Clinical trials are too costly and often aren’t covered by insurance.

Reality:
Most health insurance plans, including Medicare, cover the routine costs of care in a clinical trial.

Trial sponsors may reduce financial burden by paying for protocol-required medicines and procedures, including medications, labs/testing, and travel and accommodation for the patient and a caregiver.³

Perception: Clinical trial participation can limit future treatment options.

Reality:
Participation in a clinical trial does not always limit future treatment options. Patients can often return to standard treatment, if necessary, after participating in a trial.⁴