PCORI authorizes $22 million to compare treatment options for back pain

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute next month will issue a $22 million funding announcement soliciting studies to compare treatment strategies for lower back pain, a leading cause of disability and the most frequent reason adults seek medical care. Authorized this week by the PCORI Board of Governors, the funding is the latest by the organization to target conditions that impose a major burden on patients and the health care system. “These targeted topics are part our effort to add specificity to our research agenda by identifying and funding studies that truly answer patients’ highest priority questions and address major challenges to our health care system,” said PCORI Executive Director Joe Selby, M.D. The board also authorized $12.5 million to support five Patient-Powered Research Network demonstration projects. Details can be found on PCORI’s website.