NECTR Northeast Clinical Trials Group, LLC
"We help make healthy possible."
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Clinical Trials: Frequently Asked Questions
Here at NECTR we take special care to understand the unique needs of each of our patients. We realize that clinical research isn't for everyone. Hopefully after reading these frequently asked questions, you will have a better understanding of the clinical trials process. Apart from performing high quality studies, our goal at NECTR is to serve as an educational resource for the community.
Why are Clinical Trials Important?
Through clinical research, new medical treatments and approaches can be proven to be safe and effective with a selected number of patients before they are made widely available. This is the central method for new drugs and treatments to reach the public.
What are the different phases of Clinical Trials?
Phase I Trials: A medication or device is given to a small group of people for the first time in order to determine safety.
Phase II Trials: A medication or device is given to larger groups of people to determine if it works and safety is further evaluated.
Phase III Trials: A medication or device is given to very large groups of people to gather information that will be used for product marketed, as well as its safe usage.
Phase IV Trials: Information about the medication or device is further studied after marketing.
How would being a participant in a Clinical Trial be of benefit to me?
Participation in clinical trials is strictly voluntary. You can opt out at any point of the process. For those who decide to get involved, there are the benefits of receiving expert medical care with treatments not yet available to the general public. You will also be closely monitored throughout the duration of the study; but most importantly, you will be taking a more active role in your health care.
Are there risks should I choose to participate?
As with any medical intervention, there are inherent risks. They may include, but are not limited to the following: unpleasant or serious side effects; treatment ineffectiveness; inconvenience of multiple visits to the study site.
How can I participate?
Click for information about the enrollment process
What is a protocol?
These are precise medical guidelines that have been thoroughly reviewed prior to study initiation. If you choose to participate, you accept the responsibility to observe the protocol, which includes the number and length of appointments, medical tests required, and other medications to be performed throughout the course of the study. Prior to enrolling into a study, please consider the time required for the study and travel to your appointments. Although you can leave a clinical trial at any time, do not start one if you think you may not finish.
Click for information about our current studies
