Oncology Research and Clinical Trials in Your Community

A clinical trial is a type of research study that investigates the safety and effectiveness of new medical treatments, procedures, or behavioral interventions in humans. These trials are available for all stages of cancer and are an option for patients to consider. They are the final step in a long process that begins with research in a lab.

Most cancer treatments we use today are the result of past clinical trials. Clinical trials are designed to test new ways to:

• Find and diagnose cancer
• Manage symptoms of cancer or treatment side effects
• Prevent cancer
• Treat cancer 

Munson Medical Center has participated in cancer clinical trials for decades as a member of the Cancer Research Consortium of West Michigan, a program sponsored by the National Cancer Institute. Based at the Cowell Family Cancer Center in Traverse City, Munson Healthcare's Cancer Research Program offers patients in northern Michigan the ability to participate in large, national research trials while remaining close to home.

Importance of Research

Research studies – sometimes called clinical trials or clinical research – are an important part of the process of developing new treatments in health care. Participating in a research study gives you an opportunity to take an active role in your own health care and gain access to innovative new drugs or procedures not yet available to the public. You will also be helping others who may have similar health conditions.

Participant Screening

Research studies vary in the type of volunteers needed. Screening research study participants helps us determine if you are the right person for the study – and helps you decide if this is the right study for you.

Understanding Your Role

It is important for you to be informed about every aspect of the research study in which you want to participate. Research studies can differ greatly in what is required from a participant. The purpose of the study will be explained to you. You should feel comfortable with your understanding of what the research study hopes to learn and what you will need to do as a participant. If you do not understand any part of the study or its requirements, it is important to ask questions.

Requirements of Participants

Studies may involve taking medication or using a device. You may be required to undergo additional tests such as having your blood drawn. You may also be required to consult with your physician. All requirements will be explained to you before you decide to participate.

If you wish to withdraw as a participant at any time before or during the study, you may do so.

Your participation in the research study may be considered part of your medical treatment, and therefore, may be covered under your health insurance plan. The cost of your participation might also be covered by the study sponsor. However, you should discuss research participation expenses and their eligibility for coverage with your insurance company prior to deciding to participate.

If your insurance company requires a co-payment or deductible for standard of care procedures related to your participation as a research participant, you will be responsible for making that payment.

Research Safety

All research conducted at Munson Medical Center has been reviewed and approved by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) before participants can be enrolled. It is the responsibility of the IRB to make sure the study is safe and that the benefits of participating in the study outweigh any possible risks.

Research studies must be conducted according to strict guidelines and regulations that are designed to protect your rights and well-being. There are always risks and possible side effects in research. However, some of these same risks are not uncommon during daily life. As a research participant, you will be told of any known risks before you agree to take part in the study. You can withdraw from the study at any time.

Your Decision

Participation in clinical research is completely voluntary. It is a personal choice that must be made carefully. Take time to review all the information provided to you. We encourage you to consult with your family, friends, and physician before making your decision.

Cancer Research Consortium of West Michigan

Munson participates in a network of 11 west Michigan hospitals, health care systems, physicians, and researchers who work together to provide cancer education and access to new cancer clinical trials. 

This consortium was one of only 46 community sites across the country selected for national funding, and one of only three sites in Michigan. New trials become available monthly. For more information, visit the Cancer Research Consortium of West Michigan website.

Munson Medical Center also serves as a site for cancer clinical trials sponsored by pharmaceutical companies, which often provide the newest cancer treatments before they become widely available. 

For more information, call 231-392-8400 or email CFCC-CancerResearch@mhc.net.

Visit National Cancer Institute website to learn more about available clinical trials.