How To Be a Medical Test Subject

To avoid any up-front fees, go to GPGP.net (Guinea Pigs Get Paid) for a free, but less comprehensive, list of upcoming studies in the United States, Canada, and Europe.

Contact a clinic that is preparing a trial that interests you—it could be anything from a simple outpatient personality test to sleep deprivation to brain imaging studies. Be prepared to answer questions about your overall health; if you sound qualified, they’ll set up a screening appointment.

At the screening, you’ll be required to sign an “informed consent” form, outlining what the study will entail and any risks involved. You’ll also need to give the clinic written permission to screen you for HIV, Hepatitis B & C, drugs, and alcohol.

After you complete a medical history questionnaire, you’ll be given a physical. Depending on the study, you may have to undergo psychological testing, too.

If you make the cut, you’ll be told when to show up for the study and what to abstain from beforehand (like medications, alcohol, etc.). In some cases, you may have to fast.

When the study is completed, you’ll be given another physical and paid. Your fee is based on both the time you served and the unpleasantness—and potential danger—of the study. In other words, having to wear a catheter pays better than popping a pill.