The Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs’ (CDMRP), Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program (PRMRP) consumer advocate recently participated in the evaluation of research applications submitted to the PRMRP. ACMF Project Director Nicola Winkel, MPA, was nominated for participation in the program. As a consumer reviewer, Nicola was a full voting member (along with prominent scientists) at meetings to help determine how the $370 million appropriated by Congress for Fiscal Year 2022 will be spent on research.
“Integrating consumer perspectives into our decision-making process brings energy and focus to our research programs. Patients, caregivers, family members, and advocates help us keep our efforts centered around what is truly important to those impacted. We very much value this critical input from our consumers who help ensure that CDMRP’s work remains critical and relevant.”
COL Sarah B. Goldman, Director of the CDMRP Tweet
Consumer reviewers are asked to represent the collective view of patients by preparing comments on the impact of research on issues such as diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life. “Serving in this role as a consumer reviewer provides a unique opportunity for the voice of service members, veterans, and their families to shape the focus of research and future opportunities,” said Winkel. “I’m grateful for this avenue to continue to advocate for Arizona’s service members and veterans and those across the country.”
Consumer advocates and scientists have worked together in this unique partnership to evaluate the merit of research applications since FY99. COL Sarah B. Goldman, Director of the CDMRP, expressed her appreciation for the consumer advocates’ hard work. “Integrating consumer perspectives into our decision-making process brings energy and focus to our research programs. Patients, caregivers, family members, and advocates help us keep our efforts centered around what is truly important to those impacted. We very much value this critical input from our consumers who help ensure that CDMRP’s work remains critical and relevant.”
Researchers applying to the PRMRP propose to promote research to improve the health, well-being, and care of all Military Service Members, Veterans, and the American Public.
More information about the CDMRP PRMRP is available at https://cdmrp.army.mil/prmrp/default.