Taking part in eye research: what to expect

Every lens, drop and device used in eye care today was first tested by people who volunteered for a study. This guide explains what taking part involves at the New Zealand Eye Research Centre (NZERC) in Hamilton, so you can decide whether it is right for you or your child.

Why people take part

• To try a new treatment that is not yet widely available.
• To have their eyes measured closely and often by clinicians with a special interest in their condition.
• To help other people, including the next generation of children with myopia.

A study is research, not treatment. A new product may turn out to work no better than what is already available, and some studies compare it with a placebo or a standard product. The information sheet for each study explains this clearly.

Who can take part

Every study has its own entry rules, such as age, prescription, eye health and previous treatment. These rules keep participants safe and make the results meaningful. Not being eligible for one study does not rule you out of others.

The steps

1. Register your interest. Join the research register.
2. Receive an information sheet. When a study may suit you, we send the participant information sheet to read at home.
3. Meet the study team. You can ask any question you like. There is no pressure to decide on the day.
4. Give informed consent. If you want to go ahead, you sign a consent form. For children, a parent or guardian consents and the child is asked whether they agree too.
5. Screening. Eye tests confirm that the study is suitable and safe for you.
6. Study visits. You attend scheduled visits for measurements and follow the study instructions in between.

Is it safe and who approves it?

Intervention studies in New Zealand must be approved by a Health and Disability Ethics Committee before they start. The committee is independent of the researchers and the sponsor. The information sheet for each study states which committee approved it and who to contact with concerns.

How much time does it take?

It depends on the study. Some involve a few visits over several weeks. Myopia studies often run for a year or longer, because eye growth is slow. The visit schedule is set out before you consent.

Does it cost anything?

You are not charged for study visits, study tests or the product being studied. Whether travel or other costs are reimbursed depends on the study and is stated in its information sheet.

Can I change my mind?

Yes. Taking part is voluntary. You can withdraw at any time without giving a reason, and it will not affect your usual eye care.

What happens to my information?

Study data are stored securely and reported without your name. Health information is handled under the New Zealand Privacy Act 2020 and the Health Information Privacy Code.

Next step

Register your interest or email research@nzerc.com. Optometrists, ophthalmologists and GPs who would like to refer a patient to the register are welcome to use the same address.