Clinical Trials

At Olathe Medical Center (OMC), you have local access to advanced, innovative clinical trials through OMC’s membership in the Masonic Cancer Alliance (MCA). As part of the MCA, our team of physicians and care staff conducts clinical studies to test potential new treatments and medications and to improve care and outcomes for future cancer patients. Medical research can help people live longer, improve their quality of life and manage or cure disease. Improvements to care are possible because of the people who choose to participate in clinical trials.

Join a Clinical Trial

Talk to your doctor about your interest in joining a clinical trial. For more information about clinical trials and the MCA, contact Kayla Martin, RN, at 913-355-3943 or [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions

What are clinical trials?

Clinical trials test how new medications or treatments work. Patients who participate have access to these new drugs and treatments. By joining a clinical trial, you can contribute to the medical knowledge that may improve your cancer care and help future patients battle the disease.

What are the benefits of participation?

By participating in a clinical trial, you have access to new treatments not available elsewhere. You also have access to regular, careful medical attention from a highly qualified care team. Additionally, you will contribute to cancer research, which can help other cancer patients in the future.

Who can participate in clinical trials?

Each clinical trial has its own eligibility requirements. Criteria include factors such as your age, gender, type and stage of disease, previous treatment history and other medical conditions.

How are clinical trials monitored for safety?

All clinical trials are guided by strict rules that are monitored by the National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration. Before it can begin, each clinical trial is approved by an institutional review board, made up of medical specialists, nurses and other professionals. As your advocate, the IRB will only approve care that intends to answer medically important questions in a scientific and responsible way.

Will my care be provided in the same way it is for other patients?

Care for patients in clinical trials is provided in the same way standard treatment is provided. Your physicians, nurses and other professionals will care for you, keep you informed about your treatment and measure your progress. To ensure reliable results, it’s important for you to follow the care team’s instructions.

What is informed consent?

Participation in clinical research is voluntary. Before you join a clinical trial, a member of the research team will meet with you to review eligibility, risks, benefits and details of care and treatment. You will receive a consent form that explains the study. Before signing the form, carefully read it, ask questions and make sure you understand it.

Are there drawbacks to participation?

New treatments aren’t always better than standard treatments. Also, as a study participant, you may be required to visit the doctor more often than you would with standard treatment. And you may have more blood drawn for laboratory tests. Some health insurance plans may not cover all care costs involved. Before you join a study, check with your insurance provider to see what is covered. Some state and federal programs help patients pay for costs associated with clinical trials. You are free to change your mind and withdraw from the study at any time.