We do research to find out if medicines, devices, treatments and diagnostic medical tools are safe and effective. We also use it to improve our health services and the systems and technologies we use.

Joining a research study can lead to better ways of treating people in our community, in Australia and across the world.

Types of research

Our research includes:

  • clinical research – studies that involve patients helping us find new and better health treatments
  • clinical trials – where patients volunteer to test a new drug or device
  • health service studies – we use these to review and improve the health care we give patients
  • public health research – where we look for ways to improve the health of populations through prevention, education and policy
  • research translation – these studies help us move new knowledge into clinical practice.

We have a strong focus on mental health research and work closely with the Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research.

We're also helping people in our rural communities take part in clinical trials through the Australian Teletrial Program.

You can find out more about our areas of research in our Research Strategy 2021–2025.

What it involves

Research can be something as simple as an interview or questionnaire. It can also involve:

  • letting researchers review your medical history
  • giving blood, urine or tissue samples
  • testing a new medicine or medical treatment – we call this a clinical trial.

Your part in the research will depend on the research study.

Taking part in research is voluntary. You can change your mind at any time. It won’t affect your treatment, and you'll continue to get the best care we can offer.

Getting involved in research

If you’d like to take part in a research study or clinical trial, talk to your doctor or treating team.

You can check our list of clinical trials [XLSX 18.58 KB] or the following websites for research projects or trials that may suit you:

Joining a consumer group

Our research consumer groups include people from our community that help us design and improve our research. We can also link you with staff doing research in an area that interests you. For more information about joining a consumer group, email WM.CommunityEngagement@health.qld.gov.au.

Benefits of taking part in research

When you take part in research, you help us improve our medical knowledge about a disease or condition and how we can treat it. In some cases, it may improve your health or the health of other people with the same disease or condition.

Taking part in a clinical trial can also help you:

  • access medicines or treatments that are expensive, or only available through a clinical trial
  • see your treating team more often
  • learn new ways to improve your condition, health and wellbeing
  • feel sure you've tried all treatment options
  • make a valuable contribution to others in the future.

It doesn't cost anything to join a research study or clinical trial if you're an Australian citizen or resident. Any treatment, tests and check-ups are paid for by the government agencies, universities, or pharmaceutical companies running the trial.

Last updated: October 2024

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