Volunteer in clinical research at SGS CPU in Edegem: Filip shares his experience
A loyal volunteer for 30 years
Clinical research can only progress thanks to people who are willing to participate in studies. Philip from Mortsel is a great example of this. Since 1996, he has regularly taken part in clinical studies at the Clinical Pharmacology Unit of SGS. Over the years, he has completed around fifty studies.
Participation starts with a screening visit
For Filip, every study begins in the same way. First, there is a screening visit. During this visit, doctors and nurses check various health parameters to determine whether someone is suitable for the study.
“During the screening, several parameters are assessed,” Filip explains. “If everything is in order and you agree to participate, you can effectively start the study.”
This process ensures that each study is conducted safely and that only suitable participants are selected.
The kinetic day
The first day of a study is often the most intensive. This is the day when the study medication is administered and researchers closely monitor how the body responds.
“The first day is the kinetic day,” Filip says. “It is a busy day with many blood samples being taken and measurements such as ECG and blood pressure.”
These measurements help researchers understand how a medication is absorbed, distributed, and broken down in the body.
Time to relax between measurements
After the intensive measurements, there is also time to relax. Participants stay in comfortable areas where they can spend their time as they wish.
“After the kinetic day, you can spend time in the areas provided for that purpose,” Filip explains. “You can rest, play games, and many people bring their laptop or tablet.”
For many participants, the stay therefore also feels like a moment to step away from the busyness of everyday life.
From compensation to motivation
For Filip, the financial compensation was an important reason to participate at the beginning. But over the years, his motivation evolved.
“At first, it was mainly for the compensation,” he explains. “But as you get older and people around you need medication more often, you realize that one day you might need medication yourself. Then it feels good to know that over the years you have contributed to that.”
An experience worth recommending
After dozens of studies, Filip still looks back very positively on his experiences at SGS.
“I would certainly recommend friends and family to take part in a clinical study at SGS,” he says. “Especially now that they have moved to the new location in Edegem. The accommodation has become even better.”
One of the most memorable moments he experienced during a study was when a television crew came to film.
“During one study, we were followed by the Telefacts program on VTM,” Filip explains. “They filmed before the study, during the kinetic day, and afterwards as well. That was quite a special experience.”
Conclusion
For Filip, participating in clinical research is about more than contributing to science or receiving compensation.
“For me, it is also a bit of an escape from the busyness of everyday life,” he says. “A few days during which everything is essentially taken care of for you.”
With his many years of commitment, Filip shows how important participants are for the development of new medicines and better treatments for the future.
