Without clinical research, many treatments we use today wouldn't be available.
Clinical trials test new medicines, vaccines, medical devices, behavioural therapies or lifestyle factors.
You can learn more about how clinical trials work at the Australian Clinical Trials website.
Clinical trials and research at Sunshine Coast Health
We're involved in a range of research studies and clinical trials, including:
- commercially sponsored trials
- collaborations with other organisations
- local trials.
Find out more about the trials and research we're working on.
Talk with your doctor if you have a condition that you think might fit with one of our clinical trials. Your doctor might also discuss a trial with you, if they think you might be a suitable candidate. Our clinical trials don't have external volunteers.
Our Clinical Trials coordination team is made up of highly trained nurses. They work on all aspects of a trial, including:
- ethics and regulations
- data management
- laboratory work
- financial work
- caring for participants.
We also have a dedicated ward at Sunshine Coast University Hospital. Here, participants can have their trial appointments in a comfortable and relaxed setting.
Consumer Research Engagement Group
Our Consumer Research Engagement Group is one of our community engagement groups, and gives us valuable feedback about how we run research and share our findings. Register your interest or email sc-engagement@health.qld.gov.au to find out more.
Things to know if you're in a clinical trial or research study
If you're part of a clinical trial or a research study, there are some things you should know.
When you have questions
Contact your doctor if you have any questions. When you started the trial, we would've given you a patient information sheet or card with our contact details. If you've lost this information, call your doctor and they'll send you another copy.
If you're Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
If you've been invited to a trial, you may like to mention that you're Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. There may be more support available to you.
We can ask a member of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander hospital liaison team to come to your appointments, if you'd like.
See our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health page for more information about services for you.
When you're concerned about a reaction or symptom
If it's an emergency, call 000 straight away.
If it's not an emergency, call your doctor straight away. Tell them about your symptoms. They might ask you to come to the GP practice or the hospital. If so, take along any information you have about the research study or clinical trial that you are involved in.
If you need to go to hospital for any reason while you're in a clinical trial, always tell them about the trial.
When you can't make it to an appointment
It's important to let us know if you're unable to get to your next clinical trial appointment. Contact the nurse who's supporting your trial, and let them know. If you don't have this information, contact your doctor.