Scientist looking into microscope

ARC Clinical Research

We don't just provide healthcare—we conduct medical research too.

ARC Clinical Research

Overview

Researchers at ARC work together to find new ways to improve medical care. Volunteers in research studies—people just like you—are a critical link in making these discoveries possible.

As part of our mission, we developed a medical research organization that participates in clinical research programs to look at new ways to prevent, detect, or treat diseases that may benefit patients in our community. Clinical Research is at the heart of all medical advances and contributes greatly to improving the quality of medicine that is available to you, and your loved ones.


What is clinical research?

Clinical research is a branch of healthcare science that determines the safety and effectiveness of medications, devices, diagnostic products and treatment regimens intended for human use. This is accomplished through clinical trials.

Clinical trials are experiments or observations that are designed to answer specific questions, such as whether a new treatment or device is safe and beneficial to people. From start to finish, clinical trials are long, careful processes, which can take many years to complete. Clinical trials involving medications and devices start in a laboratory and may include testing the treatment in animals. If a new treatment shows promise it may move to testing in people in the form of a clinical trial.

Clinical trials show us what works and what doesn’t work. They are the best way to learn and test different options to treat different medical conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What does it cost to participate?

    Nothing; participation in our studies is at no cost to you or your insurance. You may receive compensation for your time depending on the study you are participating in.

  • What else is in it for me?

    All of your study medications, lab tests and health evaluations are provided at no cost to you or your insurance. There is no cost for the study-related care provided by the research physician, advanced practice clinician (APC), and staff. You may also have access to study treatments and medications that may not be available outside a research study. You also may receive the satisfaction of helping others by advancing medical science.

  • What will research prove?

    Research is the best way to determine what works best in preventing, detecting, and treating diseases. Some studies help find safer and more effective medicines than those currently prescribed while other studies compare commonly prescribed medications to determine which works the best and is safest.

  • What about side effects?

    Your health and safety are the top priorities. All medicines currently available have possible side effects that may be experienced by some. It is important to weigh the benefits and risks of taking any medications. Our research team is there to carefully track any side effects as well as benefits you may have.

  • Is it risky to participate in a study?

    Research standards are very strict; this helps to ensure the maximum safety to participants. Studies are designed to identify side effects and benefits. Although all medications can have side effects and risks, each study we conduct has been reviewed by teams of government and research experts to ensure the potential benefits outweigh any risks of the study.

  • What does my doctor or advanced practice clinician (APC) think about this study?

    Clinical research is important to help advance medical science and improve the quality of healthcare. Our ARC doctors and APCs find value in what we can learn from Clinical Research and it often provides benefits to patients involved. Your decision to enter a study is optional and does not interfere with your ongoing care with your doctor or APC and your ARC care team.

  • How do I sign up?

    For more information on how to participate in a study, please contact our ARC research team at 737-247-7240.

  • What if I decide to not complete the study?

    Your involvement in any study is completely voluntary. You can stop at any time. This will not change your treatment by and relationship with your personal doctor or advanced practice clinician (APC).

  • What else should I know?

    Access to personal information collected during the study will be limited to the study team. We will share this information with your doctor or advanced practice clinician (APC) if you wish. Participation will not change your relationship with your doctor or APC.