I qualify for the Lapatinib/Tykerb Clinical, but have to pay for all the tests

[bashmaz]

Hi all - it looks like I can get into the clinical trial for early stagers for a year of lapatinib,( or placebo.) I've never had Herceptin or a recurrance. However, unlike a previous GSK clinical trial i was in (for a her2 vaccine), this one says I have to pay for whatever my insurance won't cover. I can't imagine insurance companies are up for paying for "elective" tests - i.e ekg, etc, that are required about every 3 months during this trial. I also feel a bit miffed at having to claim all the tests (except bloodwork), through my insurance, as I worry about the lifetime max. for claims.

Also, one of the side effects is nausea/vomitting, and I'd hate to have to pay out of pocket for Zofran! And if I actually had NO side effects, I'd figure I was taking the placebo, and then I'd still be paying for a year of tests. I do feel that this would still be a good thing, and a benefit to our children, so I'll probably end up doing the trial, but just thought I'd see if any of you have comments/thoughts on this.

Marianne