Do clinical trials cost money?

In most clinical trials, the study treatment, study-related tests and study visits are provided at no cost to participants. The organisation running the research, such as a pharmaceutical company, university or hospital, usually covers these costs.

Searching for trials through Clinrol is free for patients, and enquiring about a study costs nothing. You will never be asked to pay to be considered for a trial listed through Clinrol.

Many studies also reimburse reasonable expenses connected with taking part, such as travel, parking or meals during long visits. Some trials, particularly early phase studies involving healthy volunteers, may offer payment for time and inconvenience. Any payment or reimbursement must be approved by an ethics committee and will be explained before you join.

It is still worth asking the research team exactly what is and is not covered for a specific study. For example, ask whether routine care you would receive anyway is billed as usual, what happens if you need extra medical attention during the trial, and whether travel support is available if the site is far from home.

Costs and reimbursement arrangements vary between countries and between studies, so the participant information sheet and the research team are the best sources for the details of any trial you are considering. If anything about costs is unclear, ask before you sign the consent form.