Clinical Studies

Many British Columbians who participate in research studies are valued partners in advancing health care.

PHSA supports a broad range of clinical research, from early-stage discovery to studies involving patients in hospitals and community settings. All research involving human participants undergoes independent ethics review to ensure safety, transparency and accountability.

Clinical studies

Clinical research helps answer important health questions and improve care. There are several types of studies that may involve volunteers:​

​Clinical trials 

Clinical trials test new treatments, medical devices or procedures to determine whether they are safe and effective. These studies are regulated by government authorities such as Health Canada and must meet rigorous standards before they can proceed.​

Observational studies 

Observational studies do not test new treatments. Instead, researchers study health outcomes from routine care to better understand conditions and improve future care.​

Behavioural studies 

Some studies explore how behaviour, environment or health system processes affect health outcomes. These studies help improve patient experience and quality of care by using questionnaires, focus groups and interviews. Like clinical studies, behavioural studies are subject to oversight from a local Research Ethics Board.


Why participate?

Clinical research plays an important role in improving health care. Without research, we would not be able to develop new treatments, refine medical procedures or better understand how to prevent and manage disease.

By participating in a study, you help advance knowledge that may benefit future patients.

People volunteer for many reasons. Some participate to help others and contribute to medical progress. Others may be interested in accessing new treatments that are not yet widely available. Every study is different, and participation is always voluntary.

Choosing whether to participate is a personal decision. You are encouraged to ask questions and consider what feels right for you.​

What to expect

If you are interested in joining a study, the research team will explain the purpose of the study and what participation involves. Your decision to participate is completely up to you.

Whether you choose to take part or not, you will continue to receive the same level of medical care.

Ethics and Review

Before any study can begin, it must be reviewed and approved by an independent Research Ethics Board (REB). This review ensures that:
  • The study meets ethical and legal standards
  • Risks are minimized
  • Participants are fully informed
  • Privacy and confidentiality are protected​

​Eligibility

Each study has specific eligibility criteria. These criteria help ensure the study is appropriate and safe for participants. For example, a trial for a new medication may be limited to people with a certain diagnosis or age range.

​Informed Consent

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you will receive detailed information about the study before deciding whether to participate. This process is called informed consent.

You will be told:

  • The purpose of the study and who is conducting it

  • What participation involves

  • Potential benefits, risks and side effects

  • Your rights as a participant

  • How to withdraw from the study at any time

You will have the opportunity to ask questions before signing a consent form. You may withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your ongoing care.​

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