Is this an approved medical procedure, clinical trial, or neither?
What, if any, are the alternative treatments to stem cell therapy? Are there other approved therapies available for my child? What makes stem cell therapy the right treatment for my child鈥檚 condition?
Is there published evidence on the safety and efficacy of this application of stem cell therapy? If so, where can I access this information?
What are the risks and benefits of this treatment?
What, if any, are the associated costs? Both up-front and after initial treatment. Which of the following cover the costs: Medicare, out of pocket, the research study (if part of a clinical trial), or insurance.
Will this stem cell treatment interfere with other treatments, or possibly disqualify participation in future clinical trials?
Procedure
Are the cells my child鈥檚 or from a human donor?
If they are donor cells, where have they come from and how have they been tested for viruses or other contaminants?
How and where will the stem cells be prepared, stored, and handled?
How are the cells administered (e.g. under skin, into vein, muscles, spine, or brain), and what are the risks of this route?
Can you run me through the whole procedure, step-by-step?
What happens if something goes wrong at the treating facility?
Medical care and recovery
What side effects could occur after my child leaves the treatment facility, and how should I monitor and report these if they arise?
How often and for how long will follow-up appointments be necessary? (Short term care)
What will the ongoing medical care look like? How often and for how long will follow-up appointments be necessary? (Long term care)
What care at home is necessary?
Are there any drugs/medicine my child will need to take after the stem cell therapy? If so, what are the costs/considerations/risks of these?
