Research and advances in technology are constantly changing the face of vision correction techniques. Dr. Ernest is known for his contributions to the field of ophthalmology and actively
participates in new developments of tools, treatments and procedures to offer his patients the best possible care. Industry manufacturers often seek his opinion and request Dr. Ernest to trial new equipment and treatments in an effort to improve on current technology. Dr. Ernest is dedicated to finding new options to improve his patient’s quality of life.
The development of new treatments and cures would not be possible without healthcare research. Thanks to the advances in ophthalmology many diseases of the eye that previously resulted in blindness can now be treated and/or cured improving a patient's quality of life.
To ensure that health research is safe, studies are designed to keep the risks to subjects as low as possible. There are also protections and safeguards that are required by law. To ensure that a study is conducted safely, a review board called the Institutional Review Board (IRB) must review and approve each protocol. The IRB is made up of a team of doctors, nurses, researchers, and members of the community. The IRB also makes sure that there is little risk for participants. All studies have a very detailed "protocol," or study plan.
Study participants must meet very specific criteria based on each studies requirements. To learn more about specific studies and study criteria visit ClinicalTrials.gov for a complete list.
There are many benefits to participating in clinical studies. Study participants receive advanced technology before the general public and may help benefit many other patients in the future.