What is a clinical trial and who conducts it?
Clinical trials are studies that evaluate the safety and effectiveness of drugs, medical devices or other medical treatments when tested on human beings. Clinical trials follow a defined study plan known as a protocol. These trials are often referred to as clinical studies, medical research studies or just studies. Clinical trials are conducted by medical personnel, such as doctors and nurses. Doctors who conduct clinical trials are also called investigators. The clinical trial team, or site staff, may also include social workers and other specialized health care professionals.
