Types of research

We use research to find out if medications, devices, treatments and diagnostic medical tools are safe and effective.

The findings from a research study can change the way we care for children and young people in Australia and around the world.

Clinical research includes:

  • clinical trials
  • genetic analysis (studying DNA)
  • using data from patient registries
  • using data from a sample of urine, blood or other items.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is where treatments are given to people to test if it’s safe and effective. This is done in a hospital, research centre or another clinical setting.

A clinical trial can include:

  • new medicines
  • medical treatments and procedures
  • surgical procedures
  • medical devices
  • vaccines
  • educational interventions
  • diets
  • psychological or behavioural counselling.

What does it involve?

The level of involvement depends on what the researchers are investigating.

Clinical research can range from something as simple as an interview or questionnaire.

It may also involve:

  • giving researchers permission to look at your child’s medical history
  • providing blood or urine
  • testing a new medicine or medical treatment - this is called clinical trial.

Why should my child take part in a clinical trial?

When your child takes part in a clinical research trial, they’re helping to improve medical knowledge about a disease or condition and how we can treat it.

In some cases, it may improve the health of other children with the same disease or condition.

Are there any risks?

There may be some risks if your child takes part in a clinical trial.

New drugs, devices or procedures are always tested first in a non-clinical setting. These may have been tested on animals to find out how much risk might be involved.

We may know about some side effects but not others, and each child may react differently to a medication or procedure.

Your child may also have to come off their usual medication to test the effectiveness of the new medication being tested. There could be risks with that.

We’ll describe any risks we know about in the ‘informed consent’ form. Researchers will give this to you before you decide to take part in a clinical trial and answer any questions you have about the risks.

Clinical trials are regulated and governed by legal and ethical codes. All research must be approved by the Children’s Health Queensland Human Research Ethics Committee. The committee is responsible for assessing the ethical principles of research and to protect the welfare and rights of anyone taking part in research.

Does it cost anything?

It doesn’t cost anything to take part in a clinical trial. They’re usually sponsored by government agencies, universities, medical centres, pharmaceutical companies and device manufacturers.

Informed consent

Before your child takes part in a clinical trial, you need to know everything about it so you can decide if it’s right for your child.

For example, you’ll need to know:

  • what the trial is for
  • how long it will take
  • about all procedures and appointments
  • who the key contact people are.

We’ll explain any potential known risks and the benefits to your child before you agree to take part. This is called informed consent.

You can ask your doctor or another clinician any questions about the trial. Don’t be afraid to ask about anything that you don’t understand.

Before your child is enrolled in a clinical trial, you’ll need to sign an informed consent form.


Is taking part voluntary?

Taking part in a clinical trial is voluntary. Only you can decide what’s best for your child.

You can also change your mind at any time. Your child’s treatment won’t be affected, and they’ll continue to get the best care we’re able to offer.

Finding a clinical trial

If you’re interested in your child taking part in research, talk to their treating clinician about joining a clinical trial.

You can also see if the following registers have any trials you think may be suitable.

Last updated: September 2023

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