You are entering webpages belonging to the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, which includes information and resources for Association advocacy efforts and the Political Action Committee of The American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoPAC).
The AAOS believes scientific research, like the critical research done at National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases and through the Peer-Reviewed Orthopaedic Research Program (PRORP), must be a top priority for funding in the 118th Congress.
PRORP is a competitive grant program that strives to address the most significant research gaps for military personnel with orthopaedic injuries. AAOS has been intimately involved in ensuring this program continues to receive proper funding since its inception in 2008, and it is considered one of the most successful Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs housed under the Department of Defense.
PRORP has typically received $30 million in funding every year, but additional funds are needed to ensure continuity of care for the patient. Over half of all combat injuries sustained during our most recent conflicts involved extremity injuries and orthopaedic-specific conditions secondary to battle injury. Studies funded by PRORP will lead to major improvements in surgeons’ abilities to care for these devastating injuries and will benefit the entire orthopedic.
AAOS was pleased to see a group of 46 members of Congress send a letter to the leaders of the House Appropriations Committee last year requesting that the funding for PRORP be increased to $35 million for 2024. We will continue to urge Congress to prioritize American researchers and to provide the funding needed to find the next lifesaving cure or breakthrough treatment.