Few people find themselves in the position to be a true pioneer.
And even fewer are able to accomplish that enviable feat while at the same time playing a role to improve their life, and the lives of others.
But Richmond Clinical Trials is providing just that chance for individuals to help make a meaningful difference.
Richmond Clinical Trials undertakes and conducts clinical research studies for the pharmaceutical industry. And to accomplish that, it’s seeking patients to participate in trials that help healthcare providers better understand diseases, their progression and how to treat them more effectively with new drugs or treatments.
Currently, Richmond Clinical Trials is in search of a group of people to take part in their vaccine studies, which are a vital component in furthering medical knowledge and creating emerging treatments, says Dr. Kim Christie, president of Richmond Clinical Trials and Okanagan Clinical Trials.
“Clinical trials and participating volunteers are the backbone of advancing medicine,” Christie says. “Clinical trials prove that a medication is safe and effective to take.”
That’s a significant aspect to consider the next time you visit your family physician or have an unexpected trip to the hospital.
“If you take a medication prescribed by your doctor, then it’s important to recognize that many volunteers have taken part in multiple clinical trials that have allowed you access to that medication,” Christie says.
Currently needed are individuals aged 19 years of age and older who are healthy, but have a managed health condition, such as asthma, COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) or diabetes.
Participants who are accepted will take part in studies to develop vaccines for two important viruses. The first study focuses on creating a combination vaccine for RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and hMPV (Human Metapneumovirus), which impact lung health. The second study aims to develop a vaccine to protect against Norovirus, a gastrointestinal virus that spreads rapidly.
“Norovirus is an easily spread, GI virus that causes diarrhea and vomiting,” Christie says. “RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a virus that can cause cold-like symptoms which can escalate in severity.”
Richmond Clinical Trials, along with its sister operation, Okanagan Clinical Trials, will conduct the trial protocols with each participant’s data providing critical information on the medication being tested and its effectiveness. Eligible participants will be reimbursed for their time.
"Even data that proves the medication does not work is extremely important in the scientific community to advance other options,” Christie says.
To join these potentially groundbreaking clinical trials and help improve the lives of others, call either Richmond Clinical Trials at 604-373-4954 or Okanagan Clinical Trials at 250-862-8141 to apply and learn more.
“Potential participants will be asked questions to determine high level eligibility,” Christie says. “If that standard is reached, an appointment will be booked to review a consent form and any questions they have before proceeding.”
For additional information, visit their individual websites at: richmondclinicaltrials.com or okanaganclinicaltrials.com.
