Understanding Clinical Trials
There are many types of clinical trials such as those studying new pain medications, diagnostic tools, and spinal implants. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for regulating clinical trials. Different organizations and individuals sponsor and/or fund clinical trials. These include doctors, medical institutions, federal agencies, and companies (implant manufacturers, diagnostic companies, pharmaceutical firms, and others).
Clinical trials follow a study plan or protocol. Think of a protocol as the rules of the clinical trial. A protocol can include information about how the study is conducted, its location, participant eligibility, how often participants are evaluated, and the duration of the study. The protocol is followed closely to help ensure participant safety and so study results can be accurately reported.
