b"How do I get involved? a range of potential benets and commitments. One of the simpler ways to get involved inTrials may provide access to new therapies clinical research is to join outreach initiatives.and thorough health monitoring throughout Many organizations, such as MS Focus: thethe study. Even if the intervention being tested Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, offer emails anddoes not directly benet you, your participation databases that share opportunities to participatecontributes to scientic knowledge that can in clinical trials. Your neurologist, rehabilitationimprove care for others living with MS.specialist, or other healthcare providers canHowever, it is equally important to consider alsohelpidentifyresearchopportunities.the risks. Research studies often involve some Healthcare professionals are often engagedegree of uncertainty. For example, new in active studies at their organization or otherinterventionsmayhaveunexpectedside institutions in your area. effects or outcomes. To make an informed Patients wanting to get involved in clinicaldecision, ask your healthcare provider or the trials can ask their healthcare providers aboutresearch team for information about the studies during a visit or look for advertisementspotential risks linked to participation. Time posted at their doctors office. Discussing acommitments and travel requirements are other clinical trial with your provider before joiningkey considerations. Consider the frequency of is also important. Factors such as mobilityvisits and the location of the study site. Some impairments, medications, and other healthstudies offer stipends to offset costs related conditions may inuence your participationto travel or time spent participating, so do not in certain studies. A conversation with yourhesitate to ask about this when reviewing healthcare provider can help you understandstudy details.which trials are a good t and prepare you toIt may also be helpful to consider what types navigate the screening process.of technology are used in a study. Suppose Internet platforms, such as ClinicalTrials.gov,a study involves using technology, such as also offer a searchable database of active studies.wearable sensors or apps. In that case, it may In addition, some scientific journals, suchbe helpful to know what technical support as the journal Clinical Trials, are specificallyand education the research team will provide dedicated to publishing the protocols of clinicalthroughout the study. research studies. If you nd an interestingEmpowering yourself study in a scientic journal or online article,with knowledge and advocacytake note of the authors and institutionsParticipating in clinical trials is about involved. Many researchers are eager to connectnding opportunities that support your values, with patients and welcome inquiries aboutinterests, and personal goals. Taking an active their ongoing projects. Reaching out directlyrole in research can help you feel more to a research team can open the door to excitingcondentandempowered.Startbybeing opportunities that might not yet be widelycurious and ask plenty of questions about publicized.the study's purpose, its procedures, and what Considerations for participation your involvement will entail. Knowledge is a Before committing to a clinical trial, it ispowerful tool, and understanding the details importanttocarefullyevaluatetherisks,of a clinical trial can help you feel more benets, and expectations. Clinical trials offerprepared and in control.35 msfocusmagazine.org"