What Does “Funded” Actually Mean?
Most trial listings say fully funded, partially funded, or not funded — without explaining what that means for your wallet. Here's what each one actually covers.
Fully Funded
Fully funded means the research team covers the cost of the treatment course after enrollment is confirmed. However, fully funded does not always mean zero out-of-pocket costs at the start. Depending on the study, two upfront expenses may apply before the funded portion begins.
Baseline Diagnostic
The research team may require a specific image or lab result taken at their facility as a starting point for the study. This is typically a one-time cost.
General Consultation
An initial in-person visit with the research team to assess your pet before enrollment is confirmed. This may carry a standard consultation fee.
Once past these initial requirements, the full course of treatment — medications, imaging, and follow-up visits — is covered by the study. Always ask the coordinator exactly what is and isn't covered at the first visit before committing.
Before your first visit: ask the coordinator for a written summary of what is and isn't covered at enrollment. This protects you from unexpected costs before treatment begins.
Partially Funded
Partially funded trials cover the majority of costs, but some expenses fall to the owner. What's covered vs. what isn't is specific to each study and defined in the trial protocol.
Per-Patient Budget
The study covers costs up to a fixed amount per animal. Treatment beyond that threshold is owner-paid. The budget amount varies by study.
Specific Portions Covered
Certain treatments, visits, diagnostics, or medications are covered; others are not. The split is defined by the protocol — not a general percentage.
You'll receive a full cost breakdown from the coordinator before any commitment to enrollment is made. No reputable research team will expect you to commit financially without full transparency on what you're responsible for.
Not Funded
Not funded trials require the owner to cover the full cost of treatment. This does not mean the trial lacks value — and for many pet owners, the treatment itself is the reason to enroll.
- Access to drugs and therapies not yet FDA-approved — treatments your pet cannot receive outside of a trial setting
- Early access to a new generation of treatments before they reach the broader veterinary market
- Close monitoring by a specialized research team throughout the course of treatment
Owners who choose not-funded trials are typically doing so because the treatment — not the cost savings — is the reason. The financial commitment is real. So is the potential.
Costs for not-funded trials vary significantly by study and treatment type. The coordinator will provide a full cost estimate before enrollment is discussed.