Collaborating to Accelerate COVID-19 Vaccine Research

The coronavirus continues to have a profound impact on the health of people around the world, in particular those who may be at higher risk for symptomatic infection, including older people, essential workers and diverse communities that have been disproportionately affected.

To help advance efforts to prevent the disease, UnitedHealth Group is collaborating with Johnson & Johnson and its Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies to share information about their Phase 3 COVID-19 vaccine candidate trial to members, customers and employees to help meet enrollment goals.

“Since the beginning of this pandemic, UnitedHealth Group has prioritized partnerships in order to address the most urgent health needs,” said Dr. Richard Migliori, chief medical officer of UnitedHealth Group. “We are encouraged by the progress Janssen has made in developing this vaccine candidate and are honored to be able to help develop a scientific approach toward trial participation.”

UnitedHealth Group is also helping Janssen identify populations with higher incidence of COVID-19 by analyzing deidentified health care data. This includes examining community infection rates and rates in specific, higher-risk populations.

“Phase 3 trials are a critical step toward ending this pandemic,” said Dr. Deneen Vojta, chief physician executive for UnitedHealth Group Research & Development. “We are grateful for the opportunity to present information about this COVID-19 vaccine trial to the people and communities we serve to help build a broad and diverse group of volunteers.”

How It Works

Throughout the pandemic, UnitedHealth Group has leveraged its clinical knowledge, expertise and resources in the fight against COVID-19. From developing new types of testing modules to working with partners to support the advancement of potential treatments and building of life-saving equipment, the safety and health of consumers, team members, their families and broader communities has always been a top priority.

Individuals interested in volunteering for the trial can preenroll through United in Research — UnitedHealth Group’s clinical research platform and virtual community — and, if there is an enrolling site near them, they will receive details on how to participate.

At the website, people can learn more about the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine candidate Phase 3 trial, other COVID-19 research studies, and additional opportunities to be a citizen scientist by participating in clinical trials and studies.