Treatment for a urologic condition can look different from one patient to another. Some people find relief with their first treatment, while others may need to try different approaches. For eligible patients, a clinical trial may be another option to discuss with their healthcare provider.
Clinical trials allow researchers to study potential treatments in people and learn more about how well they work, their possible side effects, and which patients may benefit.
Urologic conditions can affect everyday life, from getting enough sleep to staying active or making plans without worrying about symptoms. For some patients, taking part in clinical research may provide access to a treatment that is still being studied while also contributing to what researchers learn about urologic care.
Considering a Clinical Trial?
Every clinical trial has its own requirements. Eligibility may depend on factors such as a person’s diagnosis, age, previous treatments, and overall health.
If a patient is interested in a study, the research team can explain what the study is designed to evaluate and what participation involves. This may include scheduled appointments, medical tests, questionnaires, or other follow-up. Patients can ask questions and learn more about the study before deciding whether to participate.
Participation in a clinical trial is voluntary. Patients can talk with their healthcare provider and the research team about the study, including its requirements and what they can expect during the process.
Clinical trials may involve potential benefits as well as risks, and participation does not guarantee that the treatment being studied will work. The information collected during clinical trials helps researchers learn more about potential treatments and urologic conditions. Those findings can contribute to future research and treatment options.
Research Across Urology Alliance
Urology Alliance affiliates participate in clinical research across a range of urologic conditions, including bladder cancer, prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), overactive bladder, and urinary incontinence.
The program includes more than 500 active clinical trials across Urology Alliance affiliates and has enrolled more than 10,000 patients. More than 300 research sites and practices participate in the program, providing research opportunities across the communities served by Urology Alliance.
The organization has more than 20 years of clinical research experience, including its legacy Solaris research program. More than 100 board-certified physician-investigators are involved in clinical research across the network.
Participating in Clinical Research
Taking part in a clinical trial can involve several steps, and patients will receive information about what participation involves before the study begins. The research team will then provide instructions for appointments, testing, and other study activities. Participants can also reach out to the team with questions or concerns along the way.
For eligible patients, a clinical trial may offer another treatment option to discuss with their healthcare provider. Participation can also help researchers collect information that may contribute to a better understanding of urologic conditions and their treatment.
Patients interested in clinical research can ask their healthcare provider or a Urology Alliance research team whether there are studies they may be eligible to join.
