How do you clearly communicate to parents that the main purpose of a phase I trial is to find the best dose of a new drug with the fewest side effects rather than treating the patient's cancer?

Just with any communication, check first to see what their understanding is. Then, see if they are ready to hear what you have to say. Say it and then have them repeat it.

When discussing trials, this conversation occurs over more than once. At the first conversation, one may be trying to lay out options including the trial. First, start by asking what they know.

• “So tell me what have you looked up online, or what did your “referring doctor” tell you about therapy options?
• “Is it ok if I lay treatment options for you?”
• “I will talk about what I call the standard of care options that are available anywhere across the country.“
• "I will also talk about "clinical trials", newer medications, or medication combinations being evaluated (or teste...