Establishing a clinical research practice

A clinical research practice can provide numerous benefits to a clinical ga stroenterology practice. These benefits include new learning opportunities, enhanced community image, increased referral base, and improved practice r evenues for the practitioner, as well as new treatment opportunities for th e patient. A deliberate, business-like approach with appropriate personnel and space is necessary for a successful clinical research practice. All per sonnel should have a thorough understanding of good clinical practices. Ave nues for obtaining a research grant are available, even for novice investig ators, if the site is patient and committed. The purpose of this review is to explore the positive as well as the negative aspects of starting a clini cal research practice, the requirements for getting the site started, findi ng the first study grant, and tasks to be anticipated during the conduct of a study.