Law Expanded Access to Experimental Medical Treatments
A 2018 federal law enabled patients with serious conditions to seek treatments that have not yet received full FDA approval.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Cancer
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In 2018, the United States signed into law legislation designed to increase patient access to experimental medical treatments. This policy shift created new pathways for individuals with terminal or life-threatening conditions to pursue therapies still undergoing clinical evaluation.
Why it matters
The legislation changed how patients facing severe illnesses can navigate treatment options outside of traditional clinical trial enrollment. It aims to bridge the gap between emerging medical research and the immediate needs of patients who have exhausted standard care.
The 2018 federal law established a formal regulatory framework for patients with serious or life-threatening conditions to access experimental therapies. This policy represents a structural shift in the clinical research pipeline, though its broad clinical efficacy data remains under investigation.
The players
Donald Trump
The current President of the United States who signed the 2018 Right to Try legislation.
Natalie Harp
A 35-year-old White House aide who has publicly credited the 2018 legislation for providing her access to experimental medical treatments.
The details
The experimental treatment law functions by allowing patients who meet specific criteria to request access to investigational products that have passed Phase 1 safety trials but are not yet fully approved by the FDA. This process requires coordination between a patient's physician and the product manufacturer. It creates an alternative to clinical trial participation for those who do not qualify for, or cannot reach, existing study sites.
Timeline
2018: President Donald Trump signed the experimental treatments law.
2019: Natalie Harp credited the legislation with impacting her own care access.
Health Landscape
The 2018 federal policy reflects a significant evolution in the national healthcare landscape regarding the tension between clinical trial safety protocols and patient autonomy. It marks a formal departure from previous regulatory barriers that restricted access to treatments until full FDA approval.
If you or a loved one are exploring experimental therapies, discuss whether you meet the eligibility criteria for these pathways with your oncologist or specialist. It is important to ask about the potential risks and the status of ongoing clinical trials for your specific condition.
The takeaway
The 2018 legislation provides a structured pathway for patients with serious illnesses to seek experimental therapies when traditional options have been exhausted. Always consult with your physician to evaluate if an investigational treatment is medically appropriate or if enrolling in a formal clinical trial is a safer, more evidence-backed option.
Further reading
For broader information on current standards of care, see the Cancer section of our site.
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