DEPARTMENTS

Through participation in clinical research studies, patients in Great Falls and surrounding communities have access to investigational treatments, new therapies, and emerging medical technologies without the need to travel to larger metropolitan areas. These studies combine state-of-the-art patient care with some of the latest advances in medicine, helping improve healthcare options both today and for future generations.

Our commitment to research allows eligible patients to participate in carefully monitored clinical trials while receiving care close to home.

Advancing Medicine Through Research

Clinical research is essential to the development of new medications, medical devices, diagnostic tools, and treatment approaches. Every medical advancement available today—from vaccines and medications to surgical techniques and medical technology, has benefited from clinical research.

The Great Falls Clinic Clinical Research Department works closely with providers and sponsors to conduct studies that evaluate new ways to:

• Prevent disease
• Diagnose medical conditions
• Improve existing treatments
• Develop new medications and therapies
• Enhance patient outcomes and quality of life

By participating in clinical research, patients have an opportunity to contribute to the advancement of healthcare while helping researchers better understand diseases and treatment options.

What Are Clinical Trials?

Clinical trials are research studies involving volunteers that help determine whether new treatments, medications, devices, or medical approaches are safe and effective.

Clinical trials may evaluate:

• Investigational medications
• New medical devices
• New uses for existing treatments
• Preventive therapies
• Diagnostic tools
• Innovative approaches to patient care

Each clinical trial follows a detailed study plan, called a protocol, which outlines how the study will be conducted, who may participate, what procedures will be performed, and how participant safety will be monitored.

Participation criteria vary by study. Some trials seek individuals with specific medical conditions, while others may involve healthy volunteers.

Participant Safety Comes First

The safety and well-being of research participants is the highest priority in every clinical trial.

Clinical studies are conducted under strict guidelines and are carefully monitored by regulatory agencies, ethics committees, institutional review boards (IRBs), and study sponsors. Before joining a study, participants receive detailed information regarding the purpose of the research, potential benefits, possible risks, and their rights as study volunteers.

Participation in any clinical trial is voluntary, and individuals may choose to withdraw from a study at any time.

Why Participate in Clinical Research?

Clinical research provides opportunities for patients to become active partners in the future of healthcare.

Potential Benefits

Access to Innovative Treatments

Participants may gain access to new therapies or treatment approaches that are not yet widely available.

Expert Medical Oversight

Clinical trials often involve frequent monitoring and follow-up, allowing participants to receive comprehensive care throughout the study.

Contributing to Medical Advances

Research participants help physicians and scientists improve medical care for future patients.

Advancing Treatment Options

The information gathered during clinical trials helps identify safer, more effective ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease.

Potential Risks

As with any medical treatment, clinical research may involve risks.

Potential risks may include:

• Unexpected side effects
• Treatments that do not provide benefit
• Additional appointments or testing requirements
• Unknown risks associated with investigational treatments

Before enrolling in a study, participants receive detailed information about all known risks and benefits to help them make informed decisions.

Understanding Clinical Trial Phases

Clinical research studies typically progress through several phases designed to evaluate safety and effectiveness.

Phase I

Phase I studies evaluate the safety of a new drug or treatment and help determine appropriate dosing levels, administration methods, and possible side effects.

Phase II

Phase II studies further evaluate safety while determining how well a treatment works in patients with a specific condition.

Phase III

Phase III studies involve larger populations to confirm effectiveness, compare treatments, monitor side effects, and collect information needed for regulatory approval.

Phase IV

Phase IV studies occur after a treatment has been approved for public use and help researchers continue evaluating long-term safety, effectiveness, and additional uses.

What to Expect as a Research Participant

Every study is unique, but participation generally includes:

• A screening process to determine eligibility
• Review of the study and informed consent documents
• Regular study visits and follow-up appointments
• Ongoing communication with the research team
• Careful monitoring throughout the study period

Our research staff is available to answer questions and guide participants through every step of the process.

Research Opportunities Close to Home

The Great Falls Clinic is committed to expanding access to advanced healthcare options through clinical research. By participating in national research studies, we help ensure patients in Montana have opportunities to access innovative treatments and contribute to the future of medicine without leaving their community.

Whether you are interested in learning more about a specific study or exploring available research opportunities, our Clinical Research Department is here to help you determine whether a clinical trial may be right for you.

View current Great Falls Clinic Clinical Research studies and learn more about available opportunities to participate.