Vision Research Institute What We Do

What is a Clinical Trial?

A clinical trial or study is a closely supervised investigative process which aims to determine or confirm how a product or technique works in human patients. At the VRI we conduct trials that involve the testing of contact lens designs, contact lens examination or fitting techniques, contact lens care products, eyeglasses and optical instruments

National Institutes of Health

National Clinical Trials

Our Investigational Review Process

The VRI clinical trials are reviewed by the Ferris State University Investigational Review Board (IRB) who must provide their approval prior to a clinical trial beginning. The IRB is responsible for ensuring that your rights and safety are protected and that no clinical trial procedures will be performed on you without your informed consent and approval.

The IRB approves study protocols, which is a carefully designed and detailed plan that is developed and then reviewed by a committee of experienced people. The protocol describes who may participate in a trial, the schedule of tests and procedures, what products are being tested and how long the trial will last.

During these clinical trials study participants will be seen regularly by the research staff to monitor the safety and effectiveness of the products or procedures that are being tested.

Ferris State University IRB