Important Information
Summary Information to Help you Decide Whether to Join this Study
| Study Title | End of Section Report Test – Again |
|---|---|
| Study Author | Zeeshan Web |
| Principal Investigator | Matthew Amsden, CEO Efforia. Dr. Viral Patel Sub-Investigator for Adverse Events |
| Sponsor | This study is made possible by your payment to join. |
| Cost of Products, Services & Information to Participant | $10.99 |
| Included Products & Services | |
| Outcome Measures | PHQ-8 |
| Contact | help@efforia.com |
Introduction & Summary
Welcome! We invite you to participate in this research study on the “Efforia” platform, made possible by your support through participation and financial contribution. Efforia is a registered Delaware B Corporation, which means we consider the public good in our business decisions alongside traditional financial goals.
This study aims to explore new research areas and contribute to scientific knowledge. Your participation is voluntary, and you can leave the study at any time without penalty. If you decide to withdraw, you may continue using the products and services you’ve purchased, or you may be eligible for a partial or full refund depending on the study timeline by contacting Efforia via email.
Before joining, we encourage you to ask questions, conduct your research, and talk to a healthcare professional about your unique circumstances. For any unresolved questions, feel free to reach out to Efforia at help@efforia.com.
Efforia is a citizen science platform where studies are effectively sponsored by you, the participants. Unlike traditional research studies, you pay for all the supplies, services, information, and tools needed for participation in one transaction. This makes studies possible that might not be otherwise.
Although you could buy these products and services separately for a similar cost, Efforia bundles them into one purchase for convenience. Efforia organizes these items and provides instructions to create a comprehensive, data-driven research experience. This setup allows you to track and understand the impact on your own life via detailed outcome reports, making informed personal health decisions easier. It also advances broader research findings, benefiting others who might not afford such purchases without guaranteed results.
Efforia is committed to equitable inclusion. If the cost is too high for you, click the large Efforia logo at the top of the screen to explore other protocols. Efforia offers protocols on various topics at different price points, including free options, so you can find one that suits your goals and budget.
Purpose of the Study
This study is conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of certain interventions on mental health using the Patient Health Questionnaire-8 (PHQ-8). The PHQ-8 is a standardized tool used to measure depression and mental well-being. By participating, you’ll contribute valuable data that can enhance our understanding of mental health interventions and their societal benefits.
What You Will Do as Part of this Study
While participating in this research study, you will need to:
- Be willing and able to follow the study directions and procedures
- Tell Efforia about any side effects or problems by communicating with help@efforia.com or online chat.
- Ask questions as you think of them, via help@efforia.com or online chat.
- Inform Efforia if you change your mind about staying in the study. You may leave the study at any time by communicating with help@efforia.com or chat.
Once you have completed enrollment, payment, and entered your personal details, here’s what’s involved in the study:
Participant Responsibilities and Tasks
Participants in the study are expected to follow a structured schedule that consists of several key tasks and activities. The study timeline is designed to ensure consistent and reliable measurement of outcomes, and participants are required to adhere closely to the schedule provided.
Overall Schedule and Timeline
The study is divided into multiple phases, each with specific tasks and activities. Participants will begin with an introduction phase, followed by Task 1. Subsequently, participants will complete the PHQ-8 assessment, which is an essential part of the study’s data collection process.
Treatment Activities
The treatment activities are structured to provide insights into participants’ mental health status and progress throughout the study. The PHQ-8 assessment, administered twice during the study, is a critical component of these activities. This assessment helps in evaluating the participant’s mental health and is crucial for tailoring treatment approaches.
Frequency and Measurements
The PHQ-8 assessment will be conducted at least twice during the study period to monitor changes and effectiveness of the treatment. These measurements are scheduled at specific intervals to ensure a comprehensive analysis of the participants’ progress.
Importance of Adherence
Adhering to the timeline is of utmost importance to maintain the integrity of the study. Participants are encouraged to follow the schedule meticulously to ensure accurate data collection and reliable results. This adherence is crucial for the overall success of the study and the validity of the findings.
The Risks, Discomforts & Benefits of Being in this Study
There are some unique risks, discomforts, and potential benefits of being in this study that you should understand.
Consider your Own Risk-Benefit Comfort Level
Thoroughly weigh the risks and benefits of participation. This study places more responsibility on you to make the right choice than in a traditionally sponsored trial. Since this is an experimental exercise, there may be possible unknown side effects that the authors are unaware of. Participants have the responsibility to consult with their healthcare providers and conduct further research at sources they find reputable before enrolling in the study.
Personal and Overall Findings
Efforia will provide you with both personal outcomes as well as overall findings. These findings will be made available at various data collection points in your experience in the study or as they are discovered by Efforia. The results and findings may impact your interest and willingness to be involved in the study. Remember, participation is voluntary and you may exit at any time with an email to help@efforia.com.
Possible Benefits of Participation
No Benefit: A key risk to all studies is that there is no benefit, and that participants receive no benefit from the proposed intervention or treatment, despite the financial payment the participant has made.
There is a possibility that there will be no measurable benefit to you, other than seeing reports that the intervention or treatment had no measurable impact.
Possible Serious Adverse Events & Side Effects
Risk Assessment Report for the Interventional New Drug Application
Introduction
The following document presents a comprehensive analysis of the known risks associated with the treatment currently under review for FDA approval. Given the limited data on the safety profile of this treatment, the risks listed below are based on various sources including academic research, online forums, folk medicine, and anecdotal evidence.
The following is a summary of known risks. However, research is limited, and there may be risks not covered by this document, risks that are currently unknown or unforeseen. Please consider these risks carefully, do your own research, and talk to a professional who knows you well and has expertise in this area, like your personal physician.
In the Case of an Adverse Event
In the event of an adverse reaction or emergency situation, it is critical to seek immediate medical assistance by calling 911. Once any acute situations are stabilized, participants are also requested to inform Efforia about the incident. This will help in monitoring the safety profile of the treatment and in making necessary adjustments to the study protocol.
Serious Adverse Events (SAEs)
Potential Serious Adverse Events associated with this treatment may include, but are not limited to:
| Theoretical side effects | Relative incidence | Recovery |
|---|---|---|
| Frustration and irritation | Low to moderate likelihood | Symptoms typically subside with continued use |
| Gastrointestinal Symptoms | Low likelihood | Symptoms typically subside after discontinuation of treatment |
| Skin & Hair Reactions | Very low to low likelihood | Reversible upon treatment discontinuation |
| Headaches | Moderate likelihood | May subside with continued use or after discontinuation |
| Mood Changes | Low to moderate likelihood | Reversible; varies with individual |
Efforia’s limitations in providing direct medical support
It is important to note that Efforia may not be able to offer direct medical support in the event of an adverse reaction or emergency. Participants should have arrangements with local healthcare providers in case of such events.
Long-term Dependence
No current evidence suggests long-term dependence issues with the treatment; however, ongoing studies are required to fully understand the potential for dependence.
Legality for Use by Various Institutions
The legality of using this treatment is subject to review by institutions such as the World Anti-Doping Association, National Collegiate Athletic Association, and general Corporate Workplace. These institutions may have specific regulations that could affect an individual’s eligibility for participation or employment while undergoing treatment.
This document aims to provide a transparent overview of the potential risks associated with the treatment to assist healthcare professionals, participants, and regulatory bodies in making informed decisions.
Inappropriate Participants Inclusion/Exclusion
To ensure informed decision-making for potential participants, here is a table identifying individuals who should approach participation with caution based on potential risks and contraindications associated with the intervention and its outcomes:
| Category of Individual | Contraindications | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Pregnant or Nursing Individuals | Potential harm to fetus or infant | Safety data is often limited for these groups; unknown effects on development |
| Individuals with Chronic Illness | Possible exacerbation of condition | Intervention may interact with ongoing treatments or worsen symptoms |
| Individuals with Allergies | Known hypersensitivity to components | Risk of allergic reaction, which can range from mild to severe |
| Individuals on Certain Medications | Drug interaction concerns | Potential for adverse interactions with existing medications |
| Individuals with Mental Health Conditions | Psychological distress or exacerbation | Possible negative impact on mental health or interference with treatment |
| Individuals with Compromised Immune Systems | Increased vulnerability | Intervention may suppress immune function or increase infection risk |
| Minors or Individuals Unable to Consent | Lack of legal consent capability | Ethical concerns regarding informed consent and understanding risks |
This table serves as a guideline for identifying individuals who should avoid participating in the trial or seek personalized medical advice before deciding to participate. It is critical for each potential participant to evaluate their own circumstances and consult with healthcare providers if needed.
Privacy & Security Risks
We are doing everything we can think of to keep your data private and confidential. However, there is no such thing as no risk. Potential participants should review the Efforia general privacy policy, which is available here: https://efforia.com/privacy-policy/
There may be very certain limits to the rights of your privacy:
- We may reach out to local help if we have reason to believe you may be a harm to yourself and/or others.
- Regulators, like the FDA or similar agency, or Institutional Review boards may review records that have your identifying information.
What to do if you have a study-related injury
If you experience a study-related injury, seek local medical care first if necessary. Efforia cannot provide emergency medical care or diagnosis. However, it’s important to contact Efforia if you experience any problems, have any side effects, or have any study-related injury after you’ve received necessary treatment. We want to make sure others are aware of potential risks.
Study related injury care and compensation
Efforia is not able to offer financial compensation nor to absorb the costs of medical treatment should you be injured as a result of participating in this research. Efforia makes no commitment to provide free medical care or payment for any unfavorable outcomes resulting from participation in this research.
In the case of medical emergency
In the case of medical emergency please dial 911 immediately. Do not attempt to contact Efforia until after the emergency has passed. Access local in-person medical assistance immediately. If at any time you feel like you may be a danger to yourself or others, please dial 988 for the National Suicide Prevention hotline. Help is available.
Alternatives to Participating in the Study
Since this study is for research only, the only other choice would be not to be in the study. If this study does not seem quite right or is too expensive for your specific purposes, Efforia is dedicated to making other studies available. You may click on the Efforia logo in the upper portion of the page and find a different study that may be more appropriate.
Your Rights as a Participant
Efforia upholds the same high ethical standards in research as seen in pharmaceutical and academic studies, despite only hosting and not sponsoring or conducting these studies. Your participation in this study is completely voluntary, and you are free to withdraw at any time without any adverse consequences. You are not giving up any rights by signing this document.
Efforia may remove you from the study if you have violated Efforia’s overall terms and conditions, privacy policy, or have a conflict of interest. Efforia may also remove you from the study in the interest of safety based on individual or community findings.
Privacy and Confidentiality
You have a right to privacy and confidentiality in this research effort. Your personal information is protected through robust measures ensuring anonymity or confidentiality. All data processing is designed to safeguard personal data against unauthorized access and misuse.
Right to Your Own Results
Participants have the right to a complete explanation of the research once their involvement concludes, particularly if the study involves any form of deception like placebos or controls.
The Right to Leave a Study without Penalty at Any time
If you decide to withdraw from the study, you can do so at any time by visiting your Profile page, selecting “Your Protocols,” and clicking “Leave.” Upon leaving, you will be refunded for any consumable products that have not yet been shipped. For non-consumable products, a full refund will be issued upon their return in accordance with our return policy. This ensures that you can participate in the study with the assurance that your financial contributions are handled fairly and with respect for your consumer rights.
Conflict of Interest Statement
As part of our commitment to ethical conduct and transparency in our citizen science clinical trial, it is essential to disclose the unique structure of our study. This clinical trial is hosted by Efforia, but it is uniquely sponsored by you, the participants. Efforia serves solely as the platform provider and does not sponsor or influence the study outcomes.
Efforia takes a transaction fee on all the products and services included in this protocol. Otherwise, we have no financial interest or conflicts of interest. To further reduce conflicts of interest, we will remind you once if you do not complete enrollment in this study. We will not remarket to you, nor otherwise push you to join the study.
How we Reduce Conflicts of Interest
It is crucial that participants do not have any financial relationship with the intervention methods or measurement providers used in the trial, nor should they be employees, investors, stakeholders, or protocol authors associated with these entities. Participation under such conflicts of interest could significantly compromise the study’s integrity and the validity of its results.
Consequences of Conflict of Interest Non-Compliance
Should you fail to disclose such a conflict of interest or if a breach of this policy is discovered, you will be subject to immediate suspension from this platform and payments may not be refunded.
By joining this trial, you affirm that you understand the above conflict of interest restrictions and agree to comply fully with them. Your participation is valued, and your adherence to these guidelines ensures the validity and reliability of our collective scientific efforts.
Data Protections
Your data will be collected, used, and protected in compliance with data protection laws. You own your own data, and it will be housed on Efforia indefinitely until you tell us to delete it by emailing help@efforia.com.
What you can do to improve your privacy and security
As part of participating in this study, you will receive notifications via e-mail, SMS, or push notification when new study tasks like questionnaires and reminders are ready for you. You can adjust your communication preferences in the Efforia application at any time. If you do not want to receive notifications from this study, do not press the Accept button. You can decide not to join this study, and will not receive notifications. To ensure others don’t see these alerts, you should make sure your phone or desktop computer and your e-mail accounts are protected by a password, pin, or other form of “access control.” You should also avoid sharing your accounts with others or sharing your account passwords. As this study is hosted in Efforia, it is governed by a set of privacy and confidentiality standards that put you, as a participant, in control. You can learn more about Your Privacy and Security rights on Efforia here: https://efforia.com/privacy-policy.
Who will have access to your data?
Efforia will have access to your data. There may be partners who also have access to your data (like labs and connected health devices).
What will we do with your data
We will use the data to show you your own personal results, and pool your results with other participants to provide general outcomes. We will not use your information connected with your name or anything that connects the data with you without your permission.
Authorization to Use and Disclose Protected Health Information
If you decide to take part in this study, the study doctor and study staff may use and share protected health information (PHI) about you to conduct the study. Protected health information may come from your medical or research records. Protected health information may include the following:
- Name
- Location
- Dates
- Phone Numbers
- Email Addresses
- Internet protocol (IP) address numbers
The study staff may share protected health information about you with the following authorized users to ensure the quality of the study conduct and study data:
- Efforia
- The Office of Human Research Protections (OHRP);
- Univo Institutional Review Board; and
- University of Portsmouth Ethics Review Board
- Other regulatory agencies
Once your protected health information has been shared with authorized users, it may no longer be protected by federal privacy laws and could possibly be used or disclosed in ways other than what is listed in this section.
Your permission to use and share protected health information about you will end after you have completed the study and any after study-related activities unless you revoke your permission sooner.
You can revoke your permission to use and share protected health information about you at any time by contacting the study doctor listed on the first page of this document. If you revoke your permission, you will not be able to stay in this study. No new protected health information will be collected after your request has been received. The protected health information about you that has already been collected may still be used and given to others as described in this section.
If you decide not to sign and date this document, you will not be able to take part in the study. However, you may continue to use and consume anything you’ve purchased to be part of the study outside the study.
California Experiential Research Subject’s Bill of Rights
Learn about the California Experiential Research Subject Bill of Rights by reviewing the information provided on the Efforia privacy policy page: https://efforia.com/privacy-policy/
Who to Contact for Questions or Concerns
If you have questions, concerns, or complaints about this study or to report a study-related injury, contact:
HELP@EFFORIA.COM
OR CLICK THE CHAT BUTTON ON YOUR SCREEN
We will immediately respond with an automated message giving you a sense of how long a more meaningful response will take based on the volume of other requests.
(646) 679-2479. If no one is available, please leave a message.
We will typically respond to telephone messages in three to five business days.
If you are unable to reach anyone at the number(s) listed above and you require immediate (life-threatening) medical attention, please dial 911 in the US/Canada or 999 in the UK and/or go to the nearest emergency room.
If you do not want to talk to the investigator or study staff, if you have concerns or complaints about the research, or to ask questions about your rights as a study subject you may contact Univo IRB. Univo IRB is an independent committee that helps to protect the rights and welfare of research participants. If you have any questions about your rights and welfare as a research participant, or have concerns or complaints regarding this research study, please contact:
Univo IRB
(919) 910-7743 or via email at info@univo-group.com.
Univo IRB
4509 Creedmoor Road Suite 403
Raleigh, NC 27612
Additional questions and closing
Efforia and Univo have approved the information in this consent form and have given approval to publish this study. This does not mean Efforia or BRANY have approved your being in the study. You must consider the information in this consent form for yourself and decide if you want to be in this study.
If you have questions, please contact help@efforia.com. It is up to you to do additional research and talk to your physician before joining a study.
