Before You Start: Steps 1-3

This section will help you to

• have a better understanding of clinical trials
• gather information you will need in order to locate clinical trials that are appropriate for you

Before You Start: Step 1: Understand Clinical Trials

This guide assumes you already know what clinical trials are and why you might want to join one. If you need to, review your understanding of clinical trials before you continue the steps in this guide.

The Learning About Clinical Trials section of this Web site offers a variety of articles to help you understand what cancer clinical trials are, why they are important, and how they work. The articles also describe the different phases of clinical trials and will help you to better focus your search for trials.

Before You Start: Step 2: Talk With Your Doctor

When considering clinical trials, your best starting point is your doctor and other members of your health care team.

Your primary care physician, cancer doctor (oncologist), surgeon, or other health care provider might know about a clinical trial you should consider. He or she can help you determine whether a clinical trial might be a good option.

NOTE: In some cases, your doctor may be reluctant to discuss clinical trials as a treatment option for you. Some doctors are unfamiliar with clinical trials, cautious about turning your care over to another medical team, or wary of the extra time that joining a clinical trial might require of them and their staff. If so, you may wish to get a second opinion about your treatment options and clinical trials.

Remember, you do not always need a referral from your doctor to join a clinical trial.

If you are eligible to join a trial (discussed in Step 3), the final decision is up to you. However, be sure to consider the professional opinions of your doctor. He or she may present very specific reasons why a clinical trial may not be beneficial for you right now.

Before You Start: Step 3: Complete the Diagnosis Checklist

Before you begin looking for a clinical trial, you must know certain details about your cancer diagnosis. You will need to compare these details with the eligibility criteria of any trial in which you are interested. Eligibility criteria are the guidelines for who can and cannot participate in a particular study.

To help you gather the details of your diagnosis so you will know which trials you may be eligible to join, complete the Diagnosis Checklist. The form asks questions about your diagnosis and provides room to write down your answers. Keep this form with you during your search for a clinical trial.

To get the information you need for the form:

• Ask a nurse or social worker at your doctor's office for help. Explain to them that you are interested in looking for a clinical trial that may benefit you and that you need these details before starting to look. They will be able to review your medical records and help you fill out the form.

Source: http://www.cancer.gov/clinicaltrials/finding/treatment-trial-guide