The American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association (AOPA) has announced an expanded 2015-2016 research grant request for proposals (RFPs) for funding of two comparative effectiveness studies, four systematic literature reviews (RFP 04012015), and up to four pilot project small grants (RFP 043015). There are two submission deadlines: April 1 for the comparative effectiveness and literature search RFPs, and April 30 for the small pilot grant projects.
The topic areas of the comparative effectiveness studies are OTS versus Custom Fit and Custom Made AFOs, and Effectiveness of Prosthetic Feet, Lower Function. These grants will be funded in part by AOPA with a $60,000 contribution to each project and the funding balance by interested partners. The systematic literature review topics are Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis-Effectiveness of Orthotic Treatment (Bracing); Alternate Assessment Tools or Category Systems-Candidacy for Prosthetic Technology; Cost Efficacy for Transtibial Interventions; and Diabetic Population-Evaluating Transtibial Amputations Versus Partial Foot Amputations. These grants will be funded by AOPA up to $60,000 each.
There are nine subject areas suggested for the small pilot grant program and a maximum of four studies will be funded for up to $15,000 each. Areas for submission are:
- Microprocessor Knee-Stumble recovery benefit for non-variable cadence ambulators, and does restricted access for K1 and K2 to hydraulic controls adversely impact patient safety?
- TLSO/LSO: Utilization and comparative effectiveness of TLSO/LSO. Pre- and postoperative use. Efficacy of custom versus OTS relating to clinical outcome, analyses of providers credential.
- Socket interface: Methods for measuring proper socket fit and alignment.
- Vacuum-assisted socket suspension systems.
- AFO/KAFO: Utilization and comparative effectiveness of custom versus OTS AFOs and KAFOs. Investigation and analyses of patients who receive custom orthosis subsequent to OTS AFO fitting.
- L-0631 bracing-Performance and outcomes data that differentiate patient results from what could be achieved with an OTS orthosis that is provided without any fitting, trimming, or clinical care?
- Quality of life, wellness, patient satisfaction and/or outcomes studies of patients who have received O&P care versus those who have not.
- Outcome measures, evaluation and quality of life metrics related to orthotic management (submissions should be pathology and/or condition related, e.g. stroke, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, polio, OA).
- Open Topics (beyond the above priorities, top quality clinical O&P research topics will be considered).
Recommendations as to which submissions merit funding by AOPA will be developed by the Center for Orthotics and Prosthetics Learning and Outcomes/Evidence-Based Practice (COPL).
For details about the individual RFPs, visit the AOPA website.
