Mission:

​Bring together US-based researchers and clinicians who are interested in systematically measuring outcomes and conducting research in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Background:

​Many national and international organizations are committed to improving access to prosthetic and orthotic (P&O) care in LMICs. While patient care and provider training can have an immediate impact on local communities abroad, research is needed to drive systemic and lasting change. Robust research can improve clinical practice, program development, and education in LMICs. However, many people working in P&O development do not have the research training or experience to conduct high quality studies and may require mentorship, guidance, or collaboration to do so. Further, the results from research in LMIC settings is often directly transferrable to research questions and challenges in domestic contexts. Therefore, the goal of this USISPO Research Committee is to establish a network of researchers, clinicians, and educators who are interested in or are currently conducting P&O-related research in LMICs.

Specific Aims:

​1. Support collaborative and high-quality P&O research studies by US-based committee members
2. Build capacity for research with LMIC partners through mentorship and guidance
3. Encourage collection of standardized data and outcomes to provide evidence for clinical and programmatic development
4. Increase the P&O literature base and peer-reviewed publications in global P&O related rehabilitation
5. Advocate for increased funding and financial support for P&O research in LMICs

Who we partner with:

ISPO MEMBERS
​ACADEMIC & HOSPITAL-BASED PROGRAMS
MPO/MSPO PROGRAMS
NGOS/NON-PROFITS IN P&O
MANUFACTURERS AND LEADERS IN P&O