Headlands Research has strategically acquired the CMRCenter (CMRC) in Puerto Rico, enhancing its network to 22 locations across Canada, the United States, and Puerto Rico. This acquisition, for an undisclosed amount, aims to streamline access for biopharma sponsors to Hispanic patient populations regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The move is expected to expedite enrollment processes for central nervous system (CNS), vaccine, and specialty trials. Founded by CEO Carmen Navarro, CMRC is renowned for its team of investigators, including Dr. Carmen Deseda, and its ability to surpass enrollment targets with a database of over 10,000 participants. The site boasts a 90% retention rate across various therapeutic areas, including early Alzheimer’s disease, vaccines, migraine, and rheumatology.
Expanding Reach and Capabilities
The integration of CMRC’s local insights with Headlands Research’s centralized quality systems and technology investments is anticipated to enhance the site’s capabilities significantly. Headlands Research is committed to advancing medical therapies and improving lives by recruiting diverse and specialty subject populations.
The organization claims to have conducted over 5,000 clinical trials, leveraging recruitment strategies and collaborations with physicians to access a broad subject database. This acquisition represents a significant step in Headlands’ strategy to provide a seamless, single-contract path to high-quality enrollment in a priority market.
Expert Opinions and Strategic Vision
Headlands Research CEO Kyle Burtnett emphasized the strategic importance of the acquisition, stating,
“CMRC’s proven performance in CNS, vaccine, and specialty trials, combined with its deep ties to Puerto Rico’s diverse, FDA-regulated patient community, gives sponsors a seamless, single-contract path to high-quality enrollment in a priority market.”
Burtnett further highlighted the benefits of uniting CMRC’s Harvard-trained leadership with Headlands Research’s network-wide resources, systems, and best practices, which he believes will accelerate research and bring urgently needed therapies to patients faster.
Implications for the Clinical Research Landscape
This acquisition comes at a time when the clinical research industry is increasingly focused on diversity and inclusion in clinical trials. By expanding its reach to Puerto Rico, Headlands Research is positioning itself as a leader in accessing diverse patient populations, which is crucial for the development of effective and inclusive medical therapies.
Historically, clinical trials have often lacked diversity, leading to gaps in understanding how different populations respond to treatments. Headlands Research’s strategic expansion into Puerto Rico is a step towards addressing these disparities and ensuring that clinical trials are more representative of the global population.
Looking Ahead
As Headlands Research continues to expand its footprint, the integration of CMRC is expected to enhance its ability to conduct high-quality clinical trials efficiently. This development underscores the growing importance of strategic acquisitions in the clinical research industry as companies strive to improve access to diverse patient populations and streamline the trial process.
Meanwhile, the industry is gearing up for the Clinical Trials Arena Excellence Awards, a prestigious program recognizing innovation, leadership, and impact in the field. Nominations are currently open, offering organizations a chance to showcase their achievements and gain global recognition.
With the acquisition of CMRC, Headlands Research is poised to make significant contributions to the clinical research landscape, offering new opportunities for collaboration and innovation in medical research.
