For Participants > Frequently Asked Questions
For Participants
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about clinical trials, participation, and the work we do at CTI. Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch, we're happy to help.
About CTI
Who are we and where are we based?
Clinical Trials Institute (CTI) is a locally owned, family‑run organisation based at the state-of-the-art Torquay Medical Hub on Victoria’s Surf Coast. As a trusted partner of the Geelong Medical Health Group (GMHG), CTI is supported by a dedicated research team with over 60 years of collective experience conducting clinical research in the Geelong region.
What kind of research does CTI do?
CTI works with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to help run clinical studies. We don’t create new treatments ourselves or carry out informal experiments. Instead, we help deliver carefully planned research studies that have already been designed, reviewed, and approved by ethics committees and health authorities. These studies follow strict safety and quality rules and are the same types of studies conducted in public hospitals, private clinics, and research centres across Australia and around the world.
What clinical trials are available at CTI?
CTI conducts clinical trials across a range of therapeutic areas, including diabetes, hypertension, mental health, and endocrinology. The trials available at CTI change regularly, so we encourage you to visit our Open Trials page to see which studies are currently recruiting.
About clinical trials
What are clinical trials, and why are they important?
Clinical trials are carefully designed research studies that test new medical treatments, devices, or ways of delivering care. They help doctors and researchers learn whether new approaches are safe and effective. Clinical trials are essential for improving healthcare and developing better treatments for future patients.
What are the phases and different types of clinical trials?
Clinical trials are conducted in stages, known as phases, to answer different research questions as a new treatment or intervention is developed.
• Phase 1 trials focus on safety. They test a new treatment in a small number of people to understand how it works in the body and identify any side effects.
• Phase 2 trials look at how well the treatment works and continue to monitor safety in a larger group of participants.
• Phase 3 trials compare the new treatment to current standard treatments in a larger population to confirm effectiveness and monitor side effects.
• Phase 4 trials take place after a treatment has been approved and is in general use. They collect longer‑term information about safety and benefits.
There are also different types of clinical trials, including treatment trials, prevention trials, observational studies, and medical device studies. The specific type and phase of any trial you are considering will be clearly explained to you in plain language before you decide whether to take part.
Why would you consider joining and clinical trial?
By joining a clinical trial, you may gain access to new treatments before they are widely available, receive close medical monitoring, and contribute to medical research that could benefit others. Participation is always voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.
Are clinical trials safe, and how are participants protected?
Clinical trials follow strict ethical and safety guidelines. All studies are reviewed and approved by an independent Human Research Ethics Committee. Throughout the trial, participants remain under the care of qualified doctors and specialist research nurses who are trained in the conduct of clinical trials. Participant safety is closely monitored at all stages, and any potential risks are explained in advance.
What is informed consent, and what does it mean for participants?
Informed consent means you receive clear, detailed information about the trial before agreeing to participate. This includes the purpose of the study, what is involved, possible risks and benefits, and your rights as a participant. You will have time to ask questions before signing a consent form.
Participating in a clinical trial
Who can take part in a clinical trial?
Each clinical trial has specific eligibility criteria based on factors such as age, health condition, medical history, and current medications. These criteria help ensure participant safety and that the study results are reliable. Our team will discuss eligibility with you before enrolment.
What happens during a clinical trial, and what does participation involve?
Participation depends on the study but may include clinic visits, health questionnaires, physical examinations, blood tests, or taking study medication. We will clearly explain what is involved, how long the study lasts, and any commitments required before you decide to take part.
Will my personal information be kept confidential?
Yes. Your privacy is very important to us. All personal and medical information is handled confidentially and stored securely. Information collected during the trial is coded and only accessible to authorised research staff and regulatory bodies where required.
Will I still see my own doctor during the trial?
Yes. Participation in a clinical trial does not replace your regular healthcare. You are encouraged to continue seeing your usual doctor, and with your permission, we may communicate relevant information to ensure your care is coordinated.
Will I be compensated for participating?
Some trials offer reimbursement or compensation for your time, travel, or other expenses. This varies between studies and will be clearly explained before you decide whether to take part.
How do I express interest in your clinical trials?
You can express interest by contacting our clinical trials team via phone, email, or our online enquiry form. A member of our team will provide further information and discuss whether a suitable study is available for you.
Still have questions?
We are happy to help. Reach out any time, we love hearing from people curious about clinical research.