Frequently
Asked Questions
Q. Do I have to have osteoarthritis to participate?
A. Not at all! As a matter of fact, we want to compare
characteristics between those persons who DO have
osteoarthritis and those who DO NOT. By all means,
come see us!
Q. Can my adult children participate in
your Clearwater Study?
A. Absolutely! We welcome and encourage this opportunity
to gather information on parents and their offspring.
Q. How old do persons need to be to participate
in your study?
A. Ages 40 years or older.
Q. How did this Clearwater study get started
in the first place? Why is this information being
collected?
A. Great question! On our home page, our Founder
and President, John P. Barrett, MD, explains in
detail the important mission of our study and Institute.
Thanks for asking!
Q. I'm a snow-bird and spend half of the
year away from Florida. Can I still participate
in this study?
A. You most certainly can! Our study exams are only
once every two years. We'll schedule a date that's
convenient for you. But don't be a stranger. If
you're near our Institute, stop by for a cup of
coffee. We'd love to see you!
Q. How long does the exam take?
A. About 10 minutes.
Q. What information will the researcher
be looking for during the exam?
A. They will take x-rays and will record your height and weight.
Q. Is the exam painful?
A. No, it is not. You will not be required to move
in any way that causes you discomfort.
Q. I have been told that an x-ray is included
as part of the study. Please tell me about it.
A. The x-ray will be taken by a state certified
x-ray technician. X-rays will be taken of your
hands, knees, cervical spine and feet.
Q. Will I be required to disrobe?
A. No, disrobing is not required.
Q. Is there a cost to participate in the
study?
A. No, participants will be examined without charge.
Q. Will the examination involve any kind
of treatment?
A. The Clearwater Study is observational. We are
gathering statistics for research only. There is
no treatment and / or diagnosis offered.
Q. Who will have access to the information
generated by the study?
A. Information obtained through the questionnaire
and the examination is strictly confidential. The
individual's name will not be associated with the
data collected. A code number will be used to identify
the record. Information will never be released without
written consent of the participant. Data collection
will be used for the purpose of research for the
cause and, prayerfully, a cure for osteoarthritis.
Q. I know this is a long-term study. When
will you be in touch with me again?
A. We will call you for your follow-up visit in
approximately two years. We will schedule an appointment
at that time. We do ask that should there be a change
of phone number and / or address that you contact
us with new information.
Q. Can I withdraw as a participant from
the study in the future for any reason?
A. Yes, you are free to discontinue your participation
in the Clearwater Study at any time. We do hope
that you will continue, if possible, so we can complete
our important research.
