Clinical Trial - Questions to ask MO

DodgersGirl

My MO has submitted me for a clinical trial (SWOG S1207) for Everolimus + AI or a placebo+ AI for 1 year.

Having never looked into clinical trials, am hoping you guys can give me an idea of questions to ask.

What is covered by the trial and not costs out of my pocket?

I have a list of questions about the drugs themselves so really am looking for what to be aware when part of a clinical trial

Thanks for any suggestions

Moderators

Hi Dodgersgirl,

You're sure to get lots of great advice here, but we wanted to also share with you this page from the main Breastcancer.org site on What Should I Know Before I Decide to Be Part of a Clinical Trial, with lots of questions you should ask your doctor.

We hope this helps!

--The Mods

Hopeful82014

DodgersGirl - You wisely mentioned the issue of expenses. Before enrolling in a clinical trial it's extremely important to know what aspects will be covered by the trial and what you or your insurance will need to pay. It's equally important to know whether your particular plan will cover any of those expenses. Many times insurers will NOT, citing the research as investigational and therefore excluded from coverage. And while the ACA does include some protections for enrollees in trials, there are MANY loopholes, so don't let anyone tell you off hand that exclusions no longer apply. Talk with your insurer directly, keep detailed notes and get any/all authorizations in writing.

It's also wise to ask your MO how participation in this trial might affect your eligibility for any other trials at any point in time. Sometimes there's one coming down the pike that might have been a better option but you're no longer able to consider due to current or past treatment.

Go to clinicaltrials.gov and check out both the trial you're being recruited for AND any others that you might be eligible for. Ask your MO to explain why this one is recommended for you over other trials.

You're welcome to PM me if you have questions, etc. Good luck!

DodgersGirl

Hopeful82014–. Thank you for your great response.

I am concerned about costs that will fall in the gray area between insurance and clinic trial. I am also concerned with how the trial may impacts treatments down the road should I need them.

SE for Everolimus are concerning, too.

My appointment is Monday. I will have a LONG list of questions!

Hopeful82014

I certainly understand those concerns, DodgersGirl! I hope your appt. on Monday answers more questions than it raises.