Every child’s health journey is different. For some families, a research study may provide an opportunity to access new medications, treatments, medical devices or approaches to care. For others, participating in research is a way to help doctors learn more about childhood health and improve care for children in the future.
Research opportunities are available for children with medical conditions, as well as healthy children and teens. Participation is always voluntary, and our team will provide clear information about the study so your family can decide whether it is the right fit.
At Norton Children’s Research Institute, affiliated with the UofL School of Medicine, patient safety is our highest priority. Every research study and clinical trial follows strict safety standards and is closely monitored by experienced pediatric research professionals. We work alongside your child’s care team to ensure research is integrated into the overall care journey whenever appropriate.
Many medications and treatments used to care for children were originally studied in adults. Research helps doctors better understand how medicines, medical devices and treatments work specifically in children, whose bodies are still growing and developing.
Research can lead to:
Research helps doctors learn that an existing treatment may benefit children in new ways, and it evaluates new therapies, technologies or approaches to care that could improve outcomes for pediatric patients.
Every advancement in pediatric medicine starts with research and the families who choose to participate.
Looking for a trial or study for your child? See all open clinical trials and research studies at Norton Children’s.
Will my child still see their regular doctor?Yes. Research teams work closely with your child’s healthcare provider and care team throughout the study.
Is participation required?No. Joining a research study is completely voluntary.
Can we leave a study after joining?Yes. You can choose to stop participating at any time.
Will we know what is involved before we decide?Absolutely. Our team will explain the purpose of the study, potential benefits, risks, time commitments and study requirements before you make a decision.
Children have unique healthcare needs, which is why pediatric research is so important. Our team focuses exclusively on improving treatments, medications and medical devices for infants, children and adolescents.
Our research team includes pediatric physicians, nurses, pharmacists, research coordinators and other specialists who are experienced in conducting research studies and clinical trials. Together, they work to ensure every study meets the highest standards for safety and quality.
The safety of your child comes first. Research studies follow strict guidelines and oversight to protect participants. Our research team works closely with your child’s healthcare providers throughout the study, and research coordinators are available around the clock to support participating families.
Hundreds of children participate in research studies at Norton Children’s each year. Families can take part in many studies right here in Louisville, helping advance pediatric care without having to travel far from home.
Many medications used to treat children originally were tested only in adults. Through pediatric research and clinical trials, we help ensure medicines, treatments and medical devices are studied specifically for children. Research conducted at Norton Children’s has helped improve how children receive care today and will continue to shape the future of pediatric medicine.
Research looks different from study to study. Some clinical trials evaluate new medications, treatments or medical devices. Others focus on understanding childhood health, improving how care is delivered or learning more about specific medical conditions.
Depending on the study, participants may include:
Our team will help determine whether a research study may be a good fit for your child and answer any questions you have along the way.
If your child may qualify for a research study, our team will explain the purpose of the study, what participation involves, potential benefits and any possible risks. You will have time to ask questions and decide whether participation is right for your family.
Choosing to participate is always voluntary. Whether you decide to join a study or not, your child will continue to receive the high-quality care you expect from Norton Children’s.
We encourage you to talk with your child’s provider about research opportunities that may be available as part of their care journey.