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. Dr. Linda Baum has served as a consumer reviewer and full voting member for the last two years to help determine how the money appropriated by Congress will be spent on research.
Consumer reviewers are asked to represent the collective view of patients by preparing comments on the impact of the research on issues such as diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life. 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,” she said.
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.