Is there a cost to participate in a clinical trial?
No. Participating in a clinical trial is free for the patient. The study sponsor — typically a pharmaceutical company, biotech, government agency (like the NIH), or academic medical center — covers the cost of the investigational drug or device, all study-related visits, study labs, study imaging, and any procedures the protocol requires. On top of that, sites usually pay you a stipend for your time and reimburse travel. The one nuance is 'standard of care' versus 'research costs.' If you would normally see a doctor for your condition anyway, those routine visits may still be billed to your insurance. The informed consent document spells out exactly which costs the sponsor pays and which (if any) might touch your insurance. Sites are required to disclose this clearly so you can ask questions before enrolling. You will never receive a surprise bill for anything the protocol required.