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What is clinical research?

Clinical research is undertaken to increase knowledge that could lead to changes in healthcare and is an essential part of healthcare development. We need to carry out research to develop new treatments or to decide which is the best available treatment or care. This includes medicines, treatments (such as operations) and tests (such as X-rays or blood tests).

Taking part in clinical research might involve:

  • Talking to researchers about your views, or filling in a questionnaire
  • Looking at your medical notes to collect information
  • Letting us take extra blood samples or extra measurements, such as blood pressure
  • Taking a new medicine or trying a new treatment or operation