Information for Participants

Are you considering participating in research?

Taking part in research is always your choice. Before you decide, it is important to understand your rights and options. People may choose to join a research study for many reasons, including:

• To contribute to scientific knowledge
• To help future patients or communities
• To share your experiences and perspectives
• To support improvements in education, public health, or society
• To gain access to new interventions

Before joining a research study, you should understand:

• Why the study is being done
• What you will be asked to do
• How much time your participation will last
• What risks or discomforts you may have
• What benefits you may receive
• Whether you will be paid, how much you will be paid, and when you will receive payment
• How your information will be protected and shared
• What will happen if you decide to stop taking part in the study
• Who to contact with questions

How your information is protected

Researchers take steps to protect your information, including:

• Securely storing all records
• Allowing only approved people to see information that could identify you
• Using codes or removing details that could identify you
• Using secure computer systems and tools that protect electronic information
• Sharing study results without naming you or including details that could identify you

These steps lower the chance that someone who is not authorized will see your personal information.

To learn more about taking part in research, visit HHS Research Participation. This resource is provided by the Office for Human Research Protections, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.