We all want to share the results of research as soon as we can; we know that hearing research results is important to those who have taken part. However, research and studying all the data (the eye test and assessment information) can take a really long time, sometimes many years!
Sometimes you may be taking part in research at Moorfields in London and other people all around the world are also taking part. Then the researchers usually have to wait for ALL the people around the world to finish all their visits, and only then they start looking at the data.
It can also take a long time to hear what treatment you took during the research. Sometimes they wait until they have ALL the results and then tell families everything at once.
It might be a good idea to ask at the beginning, what will happen at the end, to help you know better what to expect. The doctor can tell you what the researchers on your study have planned.
Research finishing early
For many reasons, we have seen research projects finish surprisingly early.
Sometimes this can be disappointing for those involved. Knowing that this can happen, might help you prepare, just in case your research finishes surprisingly early.
Can I carry on research treatment?
Sometimes you might want to carry on taking the research medicine or treatment after the research project finishes. Usually this is not what happens.
Sometimes there might be a similar project you might be able to join.
But sometimes if you have already taken part in research and taken a research treatment, then you can’t take part in the next research.
It is always different for every project. If you are hoping to carry on with the research treatment after the project ends, please talk to the doctor about this as they will be able to help you know whether this is likely to happen or not.
Who looks after my eyes after research?
When you finish all your research visits, we will say a big thank you to you for taking part in research! Then you will go back to seeing your optometrist (optician) near where you live for your eye tests.
If you are seen at an eye hospital clinic, this will probably continue.
We will say goodbye from the research team and stop being involved in your/ your child’s eye care - but we will tell you the research results when they are shared. Remember though, sometimes this can take years!