Prepare for your first research visit

Confirm what this appointment is for

A first appointment may be an information conversation, a consent discussion or a screening visit. Ask which one you are booking, how long to allow and whether another location is involved. Do not infer the visit plan from someone else’s experience in a different study.

Keep one note with the date, arrival time, address, contact number and instructions the team actually gave you. If anything is unclear, call before the appointment rather than filling in the gap yourself.

Pack a small, useful set of items

Use the team’s requested list as your starting point. A notebook, glasses or hearing aids you normally use, and the questions you want answered can make the conversation easier. Confirm whether a support person may attend and what arrangements the center recommends.

• Bring documents or identification only as requested by the team.
• Ask whether medication information is needed and how to provide it.
• Check directions, parking and the correct entrance.
• Confirm any food, drink or medication instructions with the study team.
• Allow time for the return trip and the rest of your day.

Do not invent preparation instructions

Do not fast, skip medicines or change a routine based on a general article or planning tool. Preparation can differ by visit and study. If instructions conflict with advice from your usual clinician, ask the professionals involved to clarify before making a change.

Before leaving, confirm the next step in plain language: who contacts whom, what you need to do and when you should expect an answer. Add that information to your notes while it is fresh. You can use the visit planner to print a practical schedule without entering personal health details.