Before you decide whether to participate in a research study, it’s a good idea to do some research of your own. Learn as much as you can about research in general and about the studies that you are considering. If you’re looking at clinical trials, discuss the potential benefits and risks with your physician. Make sure there are procedures in place to protect participants. And, throughout the research process, don’t hesitate to ask questions or to voice any concerns that you may have.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP) works to protect the rights and welfare of participants in research conducted or supported by HHS. An important part of protecting research participants is helping them understand research and how participating might affect them so that they can make an informed decision about whether to volunteer.
OHRP has developed a website called About Research Participation, in both English and Spanish, to inform and educate the public about research and research participation.
About Research Participation includes informational videos, infographics, a list of questions to ask researchers, and additional resources.
OHRP’s informational video for the general public provides basic information about informed consent and what information a potential participant will be given to help decide whether to volunteer for a research study. The Spanish language version of this video is also available.
Find “Informed Consent for Research: What to Expect” in English at: https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/education-and-outreach/about-research-participation/informational-videos/index.html
Find the *NEW* Spanish Language version here: https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/education-and-outreach/about-research-participation/videos-informativos/index.html
Following are links to helpful information: