If you or someone you know is interested in participating in one of our clinical trials or studies, please call us (877) 692-8338 or complete the form under the Contact Us tab.


Established in 1996, the Clinical Research Department at Summit Health conducts clinical trials of drugs, devices, and vaccines. These state-of-the-art studies are performed within the guidelines and regulations of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and in keeping with good clinical practices (GCPs).

As a research volunteer, you’ll receive frequent medical care, diagnostic procedures and medication/treatment at no cost. Your participation will contribute to the growing body of medical knowledge to help advance today’s improvements and tomorrow’s cures. Our well-qualified staff will work closely with you and physicians to collect data and assess the safety and efficacy of investigational new drugs and treatments. You can rest assured that we’ll provide you with safe, honest and compassionate care every step of the way.

For information on placing a study at Summit Health , please contact our research department at ResearchMD@bmctotalcare.com.

Below are some of our frequently asked questions. Feel free to call us for more information or if you have additional questions.

Clinical Trials

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a study of a new medical treatment in people. Every new medical treatment must be proven safe and effective before it can be offered to a large number of patients. Clinical trials are an essential and necessary component of the scientific research process. It is only through clinical trials that new medications and treatments become available!  We conduct studies in a wide range of specialties.

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Why should I consider participating in a clinical trial?

Medical care provided during a clinical trial is often provided at no cost. This may include lab work, EKGs, X-Rays, and physical examinations. Study medication is also often provided at no cost. Being in a study provides access to medications that are not otherwise available. Also, participating in a clinical trial provides an opportunity to contribute to the advancement of medical research.

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Do I qualify?

Every clinical trial has a protocol, or action plan, for conducting the trial. The plan describes what will be done in the study, how it will be conducted, and why each part of the study is necessary. Each study has its own rules about who can participate. Some studies need volunteers with a certain disease. Some need healthy people. Others want just men or just women.

Posted in: Our Services, Clinical Trials

How is my safety monitored?

Clinical trials that test new treatments in the U.S. are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. There are international guidelines that study doctors and drug companies must follow for every clinical trial they do. Also, an independent ethics committee of scientific and non-scientific men and women must approve and monitor the protocol. They make sure that the risks are small and are worth the potential benefits. Your study doctor and research team will see you during return visits. They will assess how you are doing and if you are having any problems.

Posted in: Our Services, Clinical Trials

How do I learn more about Clinical Trials at Summit Health?

For more information, please contact the Clinical Research Department at 877-692-8338 or complete our inquiry form under “Contact Us”. A Research Coordinator will contact you to answer any questions you might have. If it sounds like there may be a study that is a good match for you, you will be provided with a consent form that describes the study in detail, including any risks or benefits of participating. You will be given time to consider the information and to ask questions.

Posted in: Our Services, Clinical Trials