The short version
- Most schedules have a start, a middle with regular visits, and a follow-up period.
- Visits often have allowed windows, such as a few days either side of a target date.
- The listing or consent form usually states how long taking part lasts.
Start, middle and follow-up
Many studies begin with screening, then a baseline visit, then a series of visits at fixed intervals, and finish with a follow-up after the main part ends. The follow-up can be surprisingly long.
Windows, not exact dates
A visit set for week 8 usually allows a window around that date, so a day or two either way does not matter. Windows differ between studies and the consent form states them.
Some visits are shorter
Not every appointment is long. A check-in by phone or a brief sample drop-off is common alongside longer visits, and the schedule tells you which is which.
Putting it on your own calendar
A helpful question for the study team is how many hours a typical month takes, including travel. They are the only ones who can answer for their own study.
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