The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) opposes a recent decision by the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) to cap indirect costs for medical research grants at 15% and requests this policy be rescinded immediately.
The AAE sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services opposing the new policy, which would affect new and existing NIH grant recipients. The association claims it poses a threat to research, specifically in the field of oral health, and without the funds, new dental treatments and advancements may be stalled, according to a press release dated March 11 from the AAE.
"These funds are essential for sustaining research infrastructure, including support staff, facilities, and operational expenses," AAE President Dr. Natasha Flake said in the press release. "Without them, universities and institutions will struggle to maintain critical research programs, ultimately jeopardizing patient care and scientific progress."
Upholding the policy not only "undermines the intent of congressional research funding" but threatens patients' well-being, Flake said.
