Each clinical protocol includes patients with specific characteristics, both for safety and scientific reasons. For example, most often it is required that kidney and liver function be within normal range, although in some studies some variation is permitted. Specific tumor types and stages of disease are often required. These characteristics are described in detail in a list called "eligibility criteria". For safety reasons patients participating in these studies must live within this region.

If you are interested in participating in a clinical trial, it is very important to discuss this with your doctor. The doctor can provide you with further information, and may be able to offer you participation in the study. If you require referral to this Centre for a clinical trial, your doctor can provide you with an updated summary of your medical status, including the diagnosis, stage of the disease, previous treatments, and other treatment options being considered. Your doctor can fill out the referral form related to the specific trial of interest.