Research

What is clinical research?  A clinical trial is a study that is carefully designed to answer specific questions about the safety and effectiveness of new medications, treatments, therapies or surgical techniques.  At Urology America, we participate in trials of all these types.  All advances in modern medicine are made through the process of clinical research.

Why participate in a study?  Clinical trials offer real benefits to current and future patients.  A study will often offer access to a new treatment option that is not currently available to the public.  These new options are usually designed to address a specific short-coming in current medical practice, and thus they often appeal to patients.  You will receive very detailed and specific care from the research team before and during the trial.  In addition to potentially receiving the investigational treatment, you have the added benefit of contributing to the future of medicine.

Are trials safe?  All medical treatments and choices, including clinical trials, involve risks.  There are, however, layers of oversight to help keep patients safe.  Clinical trial protocols are nearly always approved by the FDA and by an IRB (institutional review board) before being offered to patients.  These are independent entities that help ensure patient safety.  Patients on a trial are cared for by CRCs (clinical research coordinators) who are experts at trial conduct and patient care and will work closely with each patient.  Investigators on the trial are physicians or providers whose ultimate responsibility is to ensure patient safety and provide attentive care for any issues that arise.

The Urology Associates Clinical Research Department is now recruiting for the clinical trials listed below.