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MIRECC / CoE

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Participate in Research

Participate in Research

VA Mid-Atlantic MIRECC

Veterans who participate in Mid-Atlantic MIRECC research help us better understand and treat post-deployment mental health conditions — benefiting fellow Veterans for generations to come.

Why participate?

Research participation is voluntary and can make a real difference — for you and for other Veterans facing similar challenges.

Research Opportunities

Research opportunities vary throughout the year and may include studies and clinical trials focused on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), blast exposure, suicide prevention, substance use, anger and aggression, cognitive functioning, resilience, and other mental health concerns affecting Veterans. Ongoing research studies are conducted at VA medical centers in Richmond and Salem, Virginia, and Durham and Salisbury, North Carolina. Contact our research team to learn more.

Contact Our Research Team

Who can participate?

Eligibility varies by study. Some studies are open to all Veterans, while others focus on specific health conditions, military experiences, age groups, or treatment histories. Study staff will review eligibility requirements with you before enrollment and answer any questions you may have.

What to expect

Here's what typically happens when you express interest in a MIRECC study.

  1. Contact the study team

    Reach out by phone or email. A study coordinator will answer your questions and tell you if you may be eligible.

  2. Screening

    You may be asked a few questions to see if the study is a good fit. This is not a commitment — you can decide later.

  3. Informed consent

    Before joining, researchers will explain the study in full — what's involved, any risks, and your rights. You'll have time to ask questions and can say no at any point.

  4. Participate

    Take part in study activities, which may include surveys, interviews, health assessments, or treatment sessions — depending on the study.

Your rights as a research participant

Participation in VA research is always voluntary. As a research participant, you have the right to:

  • Be fully informed about the study before agreeing to participate
  • Ask questions at any time — before, during, or after the study
  • Withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or impact on your VA care
  • Have your personal health information kept confidential in accordance with federal law
  • Be treated with dignity and respect throughout your participation

Common questions

Answers to questions Veterans often have about participating in MIRECC research.

Is participation voluntary?
Yes. Participation in all MIRECC research studies is completely voluntary. You may withdraw at any time without affecting your VA benefits or care.
Will my VA benefits or care be affected?
No. Your decision to participate — or not participate — will have no effect on your VA healthcare, disability benefits, or any other services you receive.
Do I have to be a VA patient to participate?
Not always. Many of our studies are open to all Veterans, regardless of whether they currently receive care at a VA medical center. Contact the study team to find out if you qualify.
Will I be compensated for my time?
Compensation varies by study. Details about any compensation or reimbursement will be provided during the informed consent process before you agree to participate.
How is my privacy protected?
All research is conducted in accordance with VA and federal privacy regulations. Your data is kept confidential and is never shared without your consent except as required by law.
Can I participate if I live far from a VA facility?
Possibly. Many of our studies offer remote participation by phone or video. Contact us to ask about options for your location.

Questions to ask before joining a study

Before deciding whether to participate in a research study, consider asking the study team the following questions:

  • Who is doing this study and what questions might it answer?
  • Who reviewed or approved this study?
  • What could happen to my health if I take part in this study?
  • What tests or procedures will I have during the study?
  • How long will this study last?
  • If I decide to participate, how will it affect my daily life?
  • Will I have to make extra trips to the VA?
  • Will I be charged anything or paid anything to be in this study?
  • Who will be in charge of my care? Can I continue seeing my own doctor?
  • Who will be told I am taking part in this study? What information will they receive?
  • What happens to any specimens that I give?
  • What happens after the study ends?
  • Will I be told the results of the study?
  • How do I end my participation in the study if I change my mind?
  • What other options do I have if I decide not to take part in this study?
  • Whom do I contact for questions and information about the study?
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