Do you need a referral for clinical trials?

A referral is often helpful for clinical trials, although some trial teams accept direct patient enquiries. Even after a direct enquiry, the trial team usually needs records from your oncologist to screen the trial's specific entry criteria. Referral or enquiry does not guarantee enrolment, and your current care should continue while eligibility is reviewed.

Each trial has defined requirements involving factors such as cancer type, stage, biomarker results, previous treatments, current health, organ function, and other medicines. The trial team compares your clinical records with those requirements and may arrange further tests. A suitable trial must also have an available place and be open at a centre you can attend.

If screening suggests that you may be eligible, the team explains the treatment plan, extra visits or procedures, possible harms and benefits, alternatives, and your right to decline or withdraw. You can take time to ask questions before deciding whether to give informed consent.

Start by asking your oncologist whether a trial matches your diagnosis and current point in treatment. If you contact a trial centre yourself, give the trial name or identifying details and ask how records should be submitted. Useful information includes pathology, biomarker findings, scan reports, previous treatment and response, recent blood tests, medical conditions, and a full medicine list.

Keep scheduled oncology appointments and continue prescribed treatment unless your care team changes the plan. Ask who remains responsible for everyday cancer care during screening and whom to contact if symptoms worsen while you wait for a decision.

Trial screening is not an emergency service. Seek urgent medical help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, fainting, uncontrolled bleeding, a seizure, or sudden weakness. Contact your oncology team promptly for fever during active treatment, persistent vomiting, inability to drink, rapidly worsening pain, or other symptoms covered by your existing emergency plan. Tell the trial team about any major change in your health or treatment.

Ask why the trial may fit your situation, what standard treatment options remain available, what extra tests and visits are involved, and which side effects need urgent reporting. Clarify who provides care outside trial visits and what happens to your treatment if screening shows that you are not eligible.