Clinical Research

Since becoming a designated research facility in 2016, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s research program has been conducting studies and clinical trials relating to a wide range of medical conditions.

Our aim is to advance the development of new and innovative treatments here in the UAE - with a focus on diseases and conditions that are prevalent in the region.

All the research we carry out is strictly in line with the Department of Health rules and regulations, and we ensure our research participants are treated with safety, integrity and confidentiality at the fore.

What is clinical research?

Clinical research or clinical trials are research programs conducted with voluntary participants. Each program evaluates a new medical treatment, drug or device with the aim of discovering new and improved methods of treating a number of diseases and conditions.

During a clinical trial, new treatments are evaluated against treatments that are deemed the most effective that are currently available.

What are the benefits of taking part in a clinical trial?

You may receive a new treatment before it is widely available to the public
You will be contributing to important research that will help us develop improved procedures and treatments, that will potentially help other patients.

Who can participate in clinical trials?

Every clinical trial is designed to study individuals with certain diseases or conditions, and guideline criteria set out to match potential participants to the study.

Volunteers who fit the criteria may be required to undergo pre-trial tests to make sure they are appropriate for the study.

How do I consent to participating in a clinical trial?

If you are interested in taking part in a clinical trial, you will be given a consent form, which will outline everything involved in the study. Your doctor or nurse will also explain the treatment, including the benefits and risks – you’ll also be able to discuss any questions you may have.

If you decide to take part in the study, you will sign the consent form and keep a copy for yourself. Clinical trials are completely voluntary, and you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time.

Questions to ask

If you are thinking about taking part in a clinical trial, find out as much as possible about the study before you decide to participate. Here are some questions you may want to ask your doctor or nurse:

What is the purpose of the study?
What has previous research of this drug or treatment shown?
What kinds of tests and treatments does the trial involve, and how long will the study last?
What is likely to happen in my case with, or without, this new research treatment?
How could the trial affect my daily life, and will there be any side effects?
Will the clinical trial require extra time on my part?
Will my records remain confidential?
Will I have to be hospitalized? If so, how long and how often?
If I agree to withdraw from the clinical trial, will my care be affected?

Awards & Accreditations

Designated Teaching Hospital by Department of Health

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi was awarded designation as a teaching hospital by the Department of Health, Abu Dhabi in June 2016, allowing the hospital to provide basic education and training programs including observerships, clinical attachments and internships. In 2017, CCAD was later awarded designated as a teaching hospital that provides advanced training programs including residency and fellowships.

All educational activities carried out are audited by the Department of Health in order to comply with their standards

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