Question about studies

[laitsgo]

I am new to all of this, do not have insurance or thousands of dollars to pay for tx.. i am looking at studies in canada right now and wonder something- i am from a smaller city and do not see any studies in it, for instance if a study is based in toronto or montreal ie., does the person have to be there present or can they have meds shipped to them and participate even if they do not live in the city? it may be a dumb question but i just do not know.

[suezeeque]

The study I'm participating in is at Toronto Western.  Yes, they do require that you be there.  I even have to bring all my medications to my appointments AND used syringes (they gave me a box and a cooler).

They give me travel money, I do not live in Toronto.  A whopping $30/visit.  :)

Yes, we have universal health care.  We don't have to pay for doctor, emergency room, hospital stay, surgeries.  However, it does not cover medications.  Extended health care plans through employment are what we use (those who have it) for that.

There is assistance available.  Check here:

http://www.torontoliver.ca/twhlc/en/hcp.html

I believe your doctor fills this out.  

Good luck!

Sue

[wtbleep]

I live in a rural area north of Vancouver and have to drive plus take a ferry to get to my appointments.  They will not ship the meds or let me do bloodwork anywhere else as this is a study and they have to have complete control of results as well as monitor your health and welfare while on tx.  Most likely you will have to make the trek to the larger city closest to you.  There are frequent visits during screening and the first 6 wks but then it slows down to once every 4-6 wks if you are stable and showing a response to the meds.  

[EyesofBlue55]

If you committ  to a trial you will have to be there on the days they need you.No you dont have to live in that city and yes there are times they can ship the meds to you (In the states I know)

[EyesofBlue55]

I would try to find a trial maybe,especially if you have no insurance.They will give you the meds and all care for free.You will have to make trips for bloodwork etc and some trials actually will pay you for participating.Do you live in Canada?I thought there was universal healthcare there???

[curiouslady1]

I don't know either but if I were going to find out I would get in touch with Hepatology or gastroenterology departments in the larger metropolitan areas and doctors who specialize in this area . . . and ask.