Do Clinical Trial Participants Get Paid?

Do Clinical Trial Participants Get Paid?

If you've ever wondered whether people get paid to participate in clinical trials, you're not alone. It's one of the most common questions people ask when considering joining medical research. The short answer is: sometimes, yes—but it's more nuanced than you might think.

In Australia, clinical trial participants typically receive what's called "reimbursement" rather than payment. This might sound like splitting hairs, but there's an important ethical distinction. Reimbursement covers your time, travel costs, parking, and any inconvenience you experience by participating. It's not meant to be a wage or a way to make money.

Medical researchers emphasise this distinction for an important reason. They aim to recruit participants who are genuinely motivated by the opportunity to contribute to scientific progress or explore new treatment options—not those driven primarily by financial need. Excessive compensation could inadvertently coerce individuals into enrolling in studies that may not suit them, potentially leading to poorly informed decisions influenced more by monetary gain than by personal or medical considerations.

The amount you might receive varies widely depending on the trial. A simple study requiring one or two visits might offer modest reimbursement for your travel and time. More intensive trials requiring multiple appointments, overnight stays, or extensive testing could provide several hundred or even thousands of dollars in total reimbursement.

Phase I trials (testing new drugs in healthy volunteers) often provide higher reimbursement because they require more time commitment and may involve staying overnight in a clinical facility for days at a time. Patient trials for existing conditions, where you might benefit directly from the treatment being studied, typically offer lower reimbursement.

Most Australian trials will reimburse you for any (or all) of the following:

• Travel expenses and parking

• Time away from work

• Meals during study visits

• Accommodation if needed

• General inconvenience

The trial coordinator should explain all financial arrangements upfront, so you'll know exactly what to expect before you commit.

While you can receive compensation for participating in clinical trials, it shouldn't be your primary motivation. Think of it as fair recognition for your contribution to medical research rather than income. The real value often lies in accessing cutting-edge treatments, receiving thorough medical monitoring, and knowing you're helping future patients.

If you're considering a clinical trial, always ask about reimbursement during your initial discussions—it's a perfectly reasonable question, and any reputable research team will be transparent about it.

To view our list of currently enrolling clinical trials, visit our study page.