The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect how we approach healthcare and medicine, including clinical research trials. As always, safety is the top priority. Learn about how COVID-19 may change a current or future trial for you or your child.

Note: If you are already in a clinical trial, some of these changes may or may not apply to your specific trial.

IMPACT OF COVID-19

How are clinical trials different during the COVID-19 pandemic?

COVID-19 has impacted clinical trials in different ways. If you or your child are already in a trial, your trial team will discuss any specific changes with you and will try to keep your current schedule the same as much as possible. You may notice some differences in trial visits, how you/your child receive study treatment, and trial communication.

Trial Visits

Each research clinic has its own policies about how to keep you, your family, and healthcare workers safe. You may see the following changes at visits:
Symptoms

Screenings for flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath

PPE

Requirements to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as a face mask or gloves

Social Distancing

Requirements to practice social distancing in common areas

Common Questions

Questions about your recent contacts, travel, and overall health

No Family / Friends

No family or friends (except a caregiver, if applicable) allowed at the clinic

Study Treatment

Your trial may offer new ways to receive study treatment (if applicable):
  • Study medication may be sent directly to your home.
  • A nurse may visit your home to give study treatment and/or complete assessments.
  • A transportation company may take you to study visits at the clinic.

Trial Communication

Your trial team may use electronic clinical platforms to connect with you and provide the following communication:
  • Consent/assent information (must provide consent/assent to join a trial)
  • Regular updates
  • Study questionnaire requests
  • Video calls
Your trial team may give you a 24-hour phone number that you can call any time you have questions. You may also be able to contact your study team by email.

Will I be exposed to coronavirus?

Your trial team will take every precaution possible to protect study participants from coronavirus but cannot guarantee that participants will not be exposed. There are ways to limit exposure and risk for COVID-19, including washing hands frequently, not touching your face, not coughing or sneezing into your hand, and practicing social distancing when possible.

CLINICAL RESEARCH OVERVIEW

COVID-19 TRIALS

Have you been diagnosed with COVID-19? Are you interested in joining a clinical trial?