About us
A Little Information about Viking Clinical Research Center
Viking Clinical Research Center has been conducting clinical trials in the Temecula Valley since 2002. Patients are typically referred to participate in a study by their physician, but this is not always the case. Many participants volunteer after hearing an ad about a research study that sounds interesting to them. Other patients hear about a research study from a friend who is currently participating, or who has completed a study and enjoyed the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Who is in charge of the study?
- A board certified physician is called the principal investigator, and will oversee the study. Other physicians (sub-investigators, also board certified), may work with the principal investigator on the study, but the principal investigator is always responsible for the conduct of the study.
- How soon can I be seen?
- Typically, we can get the patient into the clinic for a screening visit the same week. Patients are welcome to stop by and pick-up a consent form at any time.
- Can I get copies of all of my test results?
- Almost always. One of the many benefits of being a research participant is that you and your doctor can follow the progression of your health while you are in the study.
- Why should I volunteer?
- The answer to this question is personal, and there is no one simple response. While some enjoy the attention given to their health while in the study, others are altruistic and hope that their participation helps to generate additional treatment. With most patients, both answers are true.
- Can I quit if I want to?
- Yes, and without any concern about the relationship you have with your physician, the study physician, or the study-staff at Viking Clinical Research Center. Study participation is 100% voluntary.
Most of our patients say that they would participate in another study. Many return to the clinic just to “drop-by.” It is our goal to make you comfortable with your decision when it comes to considering study participation.
Finally, Thank You Temecula Valley, For Supporting Viking Clinical Research Center Since 2002!
The Viking Commitment to our Patients
Patients who are considering study-participation should know that at Viking Clinical Research Center they will be expected to read and fully understand an informed consent form before they sign the form. The patient (and, if applicable, the caregiver) will receive a signed copy of the consent form. Patients are invited to take a copy of the consent home for his or her review, and to discuss study participation with family members, caregivers, their physician or their clinician.
Each study is overseen by an experienced and licensed physician, usually a specialist in the area being studied. Each patient can expect to visit with this physician, and ask questions regarding their condition and the study they are participating in.
Patients will be screened carefully before being allowed to participate in a study. This screening generally includes a physical examination, blood and urine collection, and an ECG.
Sometimes, further screening tests (such as an x-ray, ophthalmologic examination, or a structured interview) may be necessary to determine eligibility. If study related, there is no charge to the patient for these screening procedures.
If there is any question about the benefit of study participation, the questions will be answered to the satisfaction of the patient, the patients physician, and if applicable, the patients caregiver.
The patient may quit a study at any time, and for any reason (indeed, for no reason).
If a patient discontinues a study, there is absolutely no impact on the relationship between patient and physician.
Patient safety and comfort is our primary goal. These two components are essential to the outcome of any study.
Every patient who screens for a study will receive 24/7 contact information. While the patient may get voice-mail between 11PM and 7AM, they can typically expect to reach the study coordinator between 7 AM until 11PM, 7 days a week. Patients are given all contact information at the initial screening visit.
Viking Clinical Research Center adheres to all articles of Good Clinical Practices as outlined by the International Conference on Harmonization. More importantly, we go beyond professionalism and hope that each study candidate feels “at-home” while they are in our clinic.