CLINICAL RESEARCH – FAQ
What is a clinical research trial?
A trial is required to test a new product or treatment to ensure it is safe and effective. As more clinical trials are undertaken, researchers gather more information and understand further about medical and ocular conditions. Medications you currently take or contact lenses or eye drops you have used, have been through clinical trials prior to being available for you to use.
Why should I participate in a trial, how does it benefit me?
By participating in clinical research, you are contributing to further understanding of products and treatments and helping to bring new products and treatments to benefit people around the world. Participating in clinical research trials is completely voluntary and we thank you for considering taking part. All products you trial will be provided at no cost to you.
What does research at nthalmic involve?
After registering your interest, we will contact you to determine if you are suitable for an initial screening visit. The screening visit is like an eye test you would have at your own Optometrist and involves checking your prescription and eye health. Your suitability for clinical trials will be discussed with you and you may be enrolled into a trial straight away. If no trials are suitable at that time, we will keep you on our register of participants and contact you when a suitable trial comes up.
What is informed consent?
Prior to participating in a trial, you will be given a document which outlines the purpose of the trial, what procedures may be involved, what is required of you throughout the trial and any risks involved. This document is the informed consent form. You will have the opportunity to ask questions before deciding on whether you participate. You may withdraw your consent at any time.
What are the potential risks involved in participating?
Clinical trials at nthalmic involve procedures performed at your own Optometrist so the level of risk is the same as having a general eye test. Some trials may involve the wearing of new contact lenses or ocular devices not yet available on the market. Any risks involved with any trial will be discussed with you to help you make an informed decision on whether you want to participate.
What are inclusion and exclusion criteria?
These criteria define who can be enrolled into a trial so that the product or treatment are trialed on participants who possess the same characteristics as the people the product or treatment is meant to help. Examples of certain criteria include age, gender or specific eye conditions.
Will I get reimbursed for participating in research?
Reimbursement for your time and travel varies depending on the trial. Specific details on this is available in the informed consent or by contacting us.
Where is nthalmic located?
nthalmic is located at Lakes Business Park, Level 3, 2A Lord St in the suburb of Botany in Sydney NSW Australia, very close to Sydney airport.
Parking: Limited parking is available on-premises; however free street parking is available in surrounding streets within a 5-minute walk to our premises.
Public transport: Sydney Buses 307, 309, 309x and 310x stop right in front of the Lakes Business Park (Botany Rd at Lord St stop).
If you have any trouble getting to our premises, please contact us and we may be able to offer assistance with transport options.
What happens to personal information collected about me?
Information collected from you will be kept confidential in our secure databases. Only certain researchers have access to these databases and may contact you from time to time if you are suitable for a trial. Our Privacy Policy can be viewed here. If you no longer want to be contacted by us, please inform us on (02) 9037 7700 or clinic@nthalmic.com