If your child qualifies for a clinical trial, they may benefit from a promising new approach to cancer care. University Health is the only academic health system in San Antonio that offers phase 1, 2 and 3 clinical trials. That means your child may have access to treatments still in development, which offer hope if standard options don’t work well.
What’s a Cancer Clinical Trial?
Clinical trials help researchers develop better ways to:
- Prevent, detect and treat cancer
- Improve quality of life
- Support patients and families
Our participation in cancer research means eligible patients have options that aren’t widely available.
Access to High-Profile Clinical Trials
Our partnerships with other groups mean your child can take part in a clinical trial at University Health and other health care facilities. These organizations include:
- Children Oncology Group (COG)
- Pediatric Oncology Experimental Therapeutics Investigators’ Consortium (POETIC)
- National Cancer Institute Community Oncology
- Greehey Children’s Cancer Research Institute
Collaborations in cancer research with these groups help find more effective treatments for kids.
Clinical Trials Steps
Learn what to expect if you're exploring clinical trials. The steps cover:
- Consultation – Discuss options for your child, adolescent or young adult
- Eligibility – Make sure your child meets the study criteria
- Consent – Fill out a form giving consent for your child to take part
- Treatment – Receive therapy at the study location (hospital, clinic, etc.), testing and follow-up care if necessary
Find detailed information about research participation and processes at University Health.
Deciding to Enroll in a Pediatric Clinical Trial
The cancer care team will help you find trials that may be right for your child. You decide whether to participate in a research study. Before enrolling, ask your child’s doctor questions and share any concerns. We want you to feel comfortable with your decision. You can withdraw your child from a study at any time.
Participant Safety
Safety is our priority. Visit our Protection for Research Participants page to learn how we safeguard patients.
Explaining Clinical Trials to Your Child
Talk to your child in age-appropriate language about clinical trials. Ask your cancer social worker or Child Life specialist for help if needed.
Current Pediatric Cancer Clinical Trials
Talk to your care team at University Health about available clinical trials.