Treatment versus research : Part 5 : Bridging the boundaries

Abstract

For clinicians wishing to embark on research, the obvious choice may be to use their large patient pool, already at their disposal. Gathering information from old files and records is relatively easy and harmless, as long as anonymity and confidentiality are maintained. However, if they choose to conduct investigations on new materials or techniques, their patients could inadvertently and unwittingly become study participants, which raises ethical concerns. This paper aims to clarify the difference between using novel approaches as part of routine clinical treatment and conducting clinical research, and explores the possibilities of straying over the fine dividing boundary, which could lead to “patient experimentation”.