When a new drug becomes available or a medical device hits the market, it’s the result of years—sometimes decades—of research and testing. One of the most essential steps in that process? Clinical trials.
Clinical trials make it possible to test whether a drug or device is safe and effective before it’s available to the general public. This process doesn’t just benefit pharmaceutical companies or healthcare providers; it has a very real impact on communities like ours in Missouri.
In fact, clinical trials conducted right here at QPS have contributed to the approval of countless life-saving treatments and new medications.
And if you’ve never thought about taking part in a clinical trial, it’s worth knowing that volunteers often receive financial compensation, get access to cutting-edge treatments, and make a difference in the lives of others.
How Clinical Trials Assist in the Development of New Drugs
Clinical trials are human research studies that evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new drugs, medical devices, or treatment methods. They are carefully designed and regulated, typically approved and overseen by government agencies like the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and Institutional Review Boards (IRBs).
These trials are often conducted in local research centers, like QPS in Springfield, MO, where state-of-the-art labs and experienced medical teams ensure safe and accurate results.
The Four Phases of a Clinical Trial
Each drug or device goes through multiple stages of testing before it ever makes it to your pharmacy or doctor’s office.
Phase 1: Testing the Waters
- Focus: Safety and dosage
- Participants: Small group of healthy volunteers (20–100)
- Location Tip: QPS often runs Phase 1 studies in-house with overnight stays—perfect for healthy adults looking to earn compensation
Phase 2: Checking for Effectiveness
- Focus: How well the treatment works and its side effects
- Participants: Individuals who have the condition being treated
- Why It Matters Locally: Access to treatment for conditions that may not yet have effective options
Phase 3: Bigger Group, Better Data
- Focus: Comparing new treatment with current options
- Participants: Large groups (1,000–3,000 people)
- Local Impact: These trials help expand healthcare options right here in Missouri
Phase 4: Long-Term Safety
- Focus: Ongoing monitoring after FDA approval
- Community Benefit: Ensures new drugs work well for real people, like those in our own neighborhoods
Why Clinical Trials Are Critical
Ensuring Safety and Trust
Clinical trials make sure that new treatments aren’t just promising in theory—they actually work without causing harm. This is crucial for building public trust, especially in rural and suburban areas like those surrounding Springfield, MO, where healthcare access can sometimes be limited.
Encouraging Medical Progress
From cancer to diabetes to rare genetic conditions, the only way to bring new hope to patients is through research. Clinical trials fuel that innovation, and by participating, you’re directly contributing to medical breakthroughs.
Supporting Our Local Economy
When you volunteer for a clinical trial at a center like QPS, you’re not just helping science, you’re also supporting local jobs, research teams, and the regional economy.
How YOU Can Benefit by Participating at QPS
You don’t have to be a doctor or scientist to help improve healthcare. Everyday people from Springfield, Ozark, Nixa, Republic, and surrounding communities play an essential role in this process.
Real People, Real Lives, Real Impact
At QPS, many studies include:
- Compensation for your time and participation (sometimes thousands of dollars)
- Free meals and overnight accommodations during on-campus stays
- Access to investigational treatments
- Regular medical checkups with licensed professionals
And yes—there’s Wi-Fi. Many participants bring books, tablets, or laptops to make the most of their downtime during overnight or extended stays.
Ideal for:
- Retirees
- College students
- Shift workers
- Anyone looking to contribute to science and get paid
What Happens After a Trial Ends?
Some of the very treatments that are on shelves today were once tested by people right here in Missouri.
But the story doesn’t end there. Even after a trial wraps up, participants can often opt into follow-up studies or surveys that help researchers understand long-term effects. At QPS, past participants are frequently invited back for future trials, especially if they’ve been reliable and responsive.
Many local volunteers form ongoing relationships with the research team, becoming regular contributors to medical advancements. This continuity not only helps improve treatments—it builds a trusted community of everyday heroes pushing healthcare forward, one study at a time.
If a clinical trial is successful:
- The data is submitted to the FDA.
- The FDA reviews all findings for safety and effectiveness.
- The drug or device may be approved for market use.
- Ongoing monitoring continues—sometimes with long-term volunteers from the original trial.
How to Get Involved at QPS
Joining a clinical trial at QPS is easier than you might think. You can check current studies on their website, call their recruitment line, or even stop by in person to learn more.
Typical requirements include:
- Age and health screenings
- Willingness to follow the trial protocol
- Short-term and overnight availability (for some studies)
Whether you’re in college, between jobs, or just want to be part of something bigger, QPS offers a chance to give back and get paid.
Helping Medicine Help Everyone
Clinical trials don’t just test drugs—they test hope, innovation, and possibility. And thanks to local centers like QPS, people in our community are helping make tomorrow’s treatments a reality.
When you participate in a trial, you’re joining a team of pioneers. You’re getting compensated for your time. And you’re contributing to medical progress that could one day save someone’s life—or even your own.
So, if you’ve ever been curious about clinical trials, now’s a great time to explore your options right here at home.