US FDA’s Woodcock Sees Clinical Trial Reform Coming, But ‘Not Wholly Optimistic’

Acting FDA commissioner says there are a lot of strong forces in the research and pharma industries that could curb efforts to make pandemic-related clinical trial reforms permanent.

Margaret Hamburg (left) and Janet Woodcock (right)
Former Commissioner Margaret Hamburg and Acting Commissioner Janet Woodcock reminisce about the duties of the job during the Milken Institute Partnering for Patients Forum. • Source: Screenshot from Milken Institute Partnering for Patients Forum

Some clinical research system adjustments could remain in place after the pandemic ends, but Acting US Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Janet Woodcock said significant headwinds may prevent the meaningful change she wants.

“I’m not wholly optimistic, but I hope so,” Woodcock said on 7 December when asked during the Milken Institute Partnering...

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