Current Studies: Participating in Clinical Research

What do studies at CVRA involve?

Most CVRA studies involve testing new technology, such as contact lenses or spectacle lens designs, contact lens solutions and new techniques or instrumentation. You can refer to the information sheet for a particular study for detailed information, or contact CVRA.

How many appointments are there, and how long do they take?

Most studies involve between 1-5 appointments. The length of appointments varies between projects, but most appointment times are 0.5 to 1.5 hours. The amount and length of appointment times will be stated in the information sheet for the particular study.

What happens at my first appointment?

The first appointment is called a "screening" and involves an appointment with a research optometrist to determine if you are suitable to be enrolled in the study. At this appointment you will be provided with an information sheet and consent form, and will have the opportunity to ask any questions you have about the study. If you consent to participate, the optometrist will conduct standard optometric tests to determine if you are suitable for the study. Refer to the information statement for the particular study for detailed information on the requirements of the study, or contact CVRA.

Where are the appointments?

All appointments are conducted at our offices at the Victorian College of Optometry, corner of Keppel and Cardigan Streets, in Carlton, Melbourne. [see map]

When are the appointments?

CVRA is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.30pm. Most of our appointments are conducted during these hours. However, in special circumstances we can schedule appointments on weekdays outside business hours and on weekends.

Are there any risks?

There may be risks associated with participating in a clinical trial and if so, these will be discussed with you prior to enrolling in a study. All studies are conducted under close supervision and the exclusion and inclusion criteria are designed to minimise any risks.

How old do you have to be to participate?

Each study that CVRA conducts involves participants of a particular age range. While the bulk of our research involves participants 18 years and older, we have conducted studies involving children, and other specific age groups.

Why do I need to provide details of my current optometrist/eyecare practitioner?

If you are enrolled in a study at CVRA, we need to notify your current optometrist/ eyecare practitioner in case it is relevant to your current or future eyecare. We send them a letter upon your enrolment in the study, and a letter upon your exit from the study. By signing the study consent form, you agree to your current eyecare practitioner being notified of your decision to participate in a research project.

Will my name be used in any publications or presentations?

Your results will be kept strictly confidential and your name will not be used in any publication or presentation of the results.

What if I change my mind once I have been enrolled in a study?

You are under no obligation to participate in this project. If you agree to take part you may withdraw from the study at any time.

What do I get in return for participating?

Your participation assists in the development of contact lens designs, spectacle designs, and other eye care products and treatments. Our research is voluntary and we do not pay any fees for participation. However, studies provide a payment for travel expenses, and often studies involve participants using our eyecare products for extended periods at no cost. Refer to the information statement for the particular study for further information, or contact CVRA.

How do I join a study?

If you are interested in taking part in research at CVRA please contact us using the enquiry form. Alternatively, you can phone our office on +613 9349 7410.