Home / Information for health care providers

Information for health care providers

Talking to your patients

Talking with patients about clinical trials is an important part of comprehensive care and raising awareness. Many patients are open to learning about research opportunities but may not realise that participation is an option and often rely on their healthcare team for guidance. Introducing clinical trials as a care option, where appropriate, supports informed, patient-centred decision-making.

When discussing clinical trials, it is important to provide clear and balanced information about the potential benefits, risks, and uncertainties, and to tailor communication to each patient’s needs, taking into account factors such as age, health status, and cultural background. It is also important to emphasise that participation is voluntary, that patients can decline or withdraw at any time, and that their decision will not affect their ongoing care or access to treatment.

Principles for talking about clinical trials with patients include (adapted from the Australian Clinical Trials website):

  • Supporting emotional wellbeing
    • Acknowledge the emotional impact of a diagnosis (where appropriate) and respond with empathy
    • Create a safe and supportive environment and encourage patients to share their thoughts and feelings
    • Reassure patients that all questions are good questions
  • Communicating clearly
    • Use plain language and avoid medical jargon or overwhelming detail
    • Summarise key information regularly and repeat important points
    • Explain how clinical trials contribute to improving care over time through research and patient participation
  • Encouraging engagement and questions
    • Invite patients to ask questions or share comments at any time
    • Use open-ended questions (e.g. “What questions do you have?”) to support understanding
    • Encourage note-taking (for example, by offering pen and paper for questions and reflections)
  • Checking understanding
    • Check that all questions have been answered to the patient’s satisfaction
  • Maintaining balance and neutrality
    • Avoid recommending a specific clinical trial; however, if asked, provide balanced and appropriate information

For further information, please refer to www.australianclinicaltrials.gov.au

How to refer your patient for a clinical trial

1. Find a relevant clinical trial

Identify a clinical trial suitable for your patient’s diagnosis or condition by searching trusted trial databases, such as:

2. Contact the trial coordinator

Where possible, contact the trial coordinator directly using the contact details provided. The trial coordinator can answer questions about the study, confirm eligibility criteria, and advise on the referral process for your patient.

3. Patient assessment and consent 

If appropriate, your patient will meet with the trial team to discuss the study in detail, go through the informed consent process, and complete any required screening tests to confirm eligibility.

Referral pathways

Referral pathways to clinical trials can vary depending on the trial design, location, and health-care setting, but the overall process is usually similar.

Common referral pathways include:

  • Specialist referral
    Most patients are referred to clinical trials by their treating specialist (such as a medical oncologist or surgeon), particularly for trials delivered through hospitals or cancer centres.
  • GP referral
    General practitioners may identify suitable trials and refer patients to a treating specialist or directly to a trial site for assessment.
  • Self-referral by patients
    Some trials allow patients to self-refer after finding a study online. These patients are then assessed by the trial team and usually require confirmation or support from their treating clinician.

Resources