Dwindling institutional budgets and reduced governmental support are jeopardizing or decreasing the ability to help educate the next generation of orthopaedic surgeons. As a result, according to David Attarian, MD, a member of the board of directors for the OMeGA Medical Grants Association (OMeGA), “Strong industry support is more important than ever to fund orthopaedic graduate medical education (GME) programs in North America.”

To recognize and encourage industry support for orthopaedic GME, OMeGA and specialty societies are joining forces. “Industry and orthopaedic surgeons have a long, cooperative, and constructive relationship around research and education,” said Jo Hannafin, MD, PhD, president of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine.

“Advancing educational opportunities for our future medical leaders is a key priority for Zimmer,” agreed Audrey Beckman, senior vice president, Zimmer Institute. “As OMeGA’s founding supporter, we appreciate every organization’s efforts to increase donor support.”

The campaign includes targeted mailings to orthopaedic sports medicine and adult reconstruction device companies, signed by representatives from OMeGA and the appropriate orthopaedic specialty society.

Spine category recognition
When an industry donor contributes to the spine specialty category through OMeGA, the company will not only be recognized by OMeGA, but will also receive recognition and appreciation from the Cervical Spine Research Society (CSRS). This additional recognition will take place at the CSRS annual meetings and on its website, thanking the donor for their spine category support.

“Educating the very best orthopaedic surgeons is in everybody’s best interest,” said K. Daniel Riew, MD, CSRS president.

Fellowship grants
OMeGA will be accepting applications for 2015–2016 clinical fellowship grants in all nine orthopaedic specialty categories beginning on Monday, Oct. 7. Applications must be received by Friday, Dec. 13, 2013, 5 p.m. CDT. To begin the registration process, visit www.omegamedicalgrants.org

Rhonda Taira is director, grants management, OMeGA Medical Grants Association; she can be reached at taira@omegamedicalgrants.org