If you’re considering participating in a clinical trial, it’s natural to have questions about what the process involves and whether it’s the right choice for you. At Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute, our clinical research program is designed to prioritize your safety, comfort, and understanding every step of the way. In this video, Dr. Stuart K. Burgess explains how patients are screened for eligibility, what informed consent includes, and what to expect throughout your participation in a study.
If you’re interested in participating in a clinical trial, contact our research team to see if you qualify.
Hello, my name is Dr. Stuart Burgess, and I’m a Retinal Surgeon and the Director of Clinical Research here at the Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute.
I’d like to share a little bit with you about what it’s like to become a clinical research candidate at our practice.
When you express interest in participating in a clinical trial, our team begins with a brief pre-screening process.
This helps us determine if you are likely to meet the specific eligibility criteria for entry into the study. These criteria are designed to ensure your safety and the accuracy of our research.
You may be asked certain questions and questionnaires about your medical history and list your current medications, and you will undergo a brief eye exam to confirm your eligibility.
Once you pass the pre-screening criteria, you’ll receive informed consent. This is a document which will go over all of the details of the study, potential risks and benefits, and your rights as a participant.
This is an opportunity to ask any questions and ensure that you feel comfortable moving forward and entering the research project.
If you decide to participate, you’ll receive further instructions about your role in the study. If, after screening, you’re deemed eligible, you’ll need to attend scheduled follow-up visits where we monitor the effectiveness and the safety of the treatment.
In many cases, compensation is offered to reimburse you for your extra time.
All studies provide free care for the eye involved in the study, and some studies will provide free or reduced-cost care for the other eye.
Clinical trials at the Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute are carefully overseen by regulatory bodies like the FDA and independent review boards to protect your safety and rights throughout the process.
If you’re interested in learning more or want to see if you qualify for a study, please contact our clinical research department, or you can visit our website. Thank you.
