BARDA stands for the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority. It is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that focuses on the advancement of research, development, acquisition, and operational readiness of medical countermeasures to address public health emergencies.
The primary objective of BARDA is to respond to and reduce the adverse health impacts of various threats and emergencies, such as pandemic influenza, emerging infectious diseases, and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) incidents. It accomplishes this by collaborating with government agencies, private industry, and academia to accelerate the development of medical countermeasures and innovative technologies that can effectively respond to such threats.
BARDA plays a crucial role in assessing, supporting, and facilitating research and development, especially for products that may lack a sufficient commercial market. It provides funding, technical assistance, and regulatory guidance to help propel the necessary research and development efforts. Additionally, BARDA actively engages in project management to ensure the timely and efficient progress of medical countermeasure programs.
Through its comprehensive efforts, BARDA aims to enhance the nation's preparedness and response capabilities, strengthening the nation's ability to respond to public health emergencies effectively. By supporting the development and manufacturing of promising medical countermeasures, BARDA contributes to safeguarding public health and combating potential threats to the United States and its population.
