Walgreens and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) have expanded their partnership with a new five-year agreement valued at up to $100 million. This collaboration aims to boost decentralized clinical trials by utilizing Walgreens' extensive network of pharmacies, primary care locations, and telehealth services. Initially launched in 2022, Walgreens’ clinical trials ecosystem is designed to improve enrollment and diversity in drug research, especially during public health emergencies. The deal is part of BARDA’s Decentralized Clinical Operations for Healthcare and Research (D-COHRe) program, which focuses on enhancing national clinical research capabilities.
This partnership marks a significant step in Walgreens’ ongoing efforts to integrate clinical research into routine healthcare, making it more accessible to diverse populations. The collaboration with BARDA is not new; earlier this year, Walgreens received a $25 million grant to conduct a decentralized clinical trial assessing COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness. This initiative was BARDA's first collaboration with a major retail pharmacy, underscoring the government’s commitment to innovative research approaches.
Walgreens' Chief Clinical Trials Officer, Ramita Tandon, emphasized the importance of this partnership, particularly in the context of public health emergencies. By combining their community reach with secure and compliant clinical trial platforms, Walgreens aims to make clinical research a more integral part of patient care. This collaboration with BARDA reflects a broader effort to enhance the nation’s readiness for future health challenges through decentralized clinical trials.
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