You will find the answers to many (if not most) of the questions you may have about participation in a clinical research study below. If you have additional questions, please call us at (417) 831-2048.

In general, most individuals participating in clinical studies report a positive experience. A survey conducted by CenterWatch found that 52% of individuals who participated in a clinical trial rated their experience as “Excellent,” while 34% rated their experience as “Good”. When asked about the quality of care they received, 89% of individuals reported “Good to Excellent”.

Every clinical research study is different. Which means the requirements and restrictions for each study will vary. You will receive specific restrictions, requirements and a copy of our participant policies at your physical visit. Below are generic questions and are not specific to every trial. If you have questions regarding a specific trial, please contact the recruiting team. You can also find out Participant Policies here.


What type of products does QPS test?

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All drugs on the market must go through research prior to FDA approval. We conduct studies on numerous types of pharmaceutical products, in the form of liquids, tablets, topical ointments or vaccines. Some are currently marketed products for which we are obtaining more detailed information or testing new formulations. Other studies may involve an investigational generic version of a product versus the marketed name-brand version. We may test the metabolic rate and absorption, the effect of food or the effect of alcohol with the study medications.

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Is there a urine drug screen?

Yes. There is a drug screen at your physical for most studies and another at each check in. And yes, we do typically test for everything.


May I bring food with me when I do the study?

All food is catered in by QPS. It is important to eat only the food served to you in the clinic. Please do not bring any food, gum, mints or candy with you. Any of these items you bring in will be stored until the end of the study. Unflavored bottled water is allowed, as long as the seal on the bottle has not been broken and all water restrictions are followed.


Are visitors allowed?

Visitors are not allowed, at any time.


Are there activities for me to do while participating in a clinical study?

There is free Wi-Fi for clinic visitors, televisions with cable, DVD players, games, books, and magazines in the clinic. You are welcome to bring your own entertainment as well. You may also bring a laptop or mobile device to utilize the free Wi-Fi.


Can I continue to donate blood or plasma before a study?

Blood and plasma donation is restricted, but the timeframe prior to each study is different. Please contact the recruiting office for the exact requirements for your specific clinical research trial.


What shouldn't be brought into the clinic?

Unauthorized items include, but are not limited to:

  • food, gum, or candy
  • unapproved medications
  • medicated lotions, shampoos or body wash
  • weapons
  • pornography or movies that are not suitable for all audiences
  • Alcohol-containing products such as perfume, cologne, body spray, or mouth wash


What do I bring to stay in the clinic?

Bring all personal care and hygiene items, such as: towel and washcloth, soap, shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, clean clothing (remember shoes or socks are required at all times), books, magazines, etc. Bedding is provided, however, you may bring extra bedding if so desired. Please bring any medications approved at your physical in the original container. Showers are available for your use.


How often can I participate in clinical studies?

Most studies require at least a 30 day break between studies. Contact the recruiting team for the requirements of your specific study.


How Do Clinical Trials Work?

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Clinical studies involving humans are one of the last steps required before a drug product can be submitted to the FDA for approval. QPS is a Contract Research Organization (CRO) that tests drug products for major pharmaceutical companies.

Typically, a drug product is measured in your body by collecting biological samples such as blood and urine. This is the most accurate way to measure how long a drug product is in your system and to what concentration it reaches.

Controlling the environment of the study is critical to obtaining accurate data. Most studies involve periods in which participants stay in our facility from a few hours to a few weekends, with the longest confinement period being 28 days. We have a dormitory-style facility that can house up to 240 participants at one time. Some studies are outpatient only (no confinement) and can last from a few days to two years in length.

Each study has its own set of requirements and restrictions (inclusion and exclusion criteria). You can choose which study you would like to participate in according to the ones for which you qualify. Contact the recruiting team with questions about your qualifications. All of the studies involve confidential physical examinations and other physical tests at no cost. Participation in clinical studies is a great way to get involved in the development of new and exciting drug products while being compensated for your time.