The American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (the Academy) asked O&P clinicians, researchers, educators, and patients to sign a letter in support of the reinstatement of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Outcomes Research Program (OPORP) within the Department of Defense’s Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program. Signatures are requested by May 11.
OPORP provided dedicated funding for O&P outcomes research from 2014 through 2023. However, for the past three years, O&P research has been placed under a broader Department of Defense program “where highly scored grants have received limited support,” the Academy said. A highly scored grant proposal usually indicates a high likelihood of funding due to its significance, innovation, and approach.
“Restoring OPORP funding to $15 million for FY 2027 would reestablish a dedicated pathway to advance evidence-based care and improve patient outcomes,” the Academy said.
The letter will be sent to Senator Mitch McConnell, the chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee for the Department of Defense, and a similar letter is planned for the House of Representatives.
To participate in the sign-on opportunity, visit the Academy’s document.
