Addressing Sensory Health Needs Across the Lifespan PCORI Funding Announcement
PCORI's Addressing Sensory Health Needs Across the Lifespan grant funds research to improve screening, treatment, and support for sensory health conditions using patient-centered comparative effectiveness studies.
Funder: Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute
Due Dates: April 28, 2026 (Letter of Intent, 5:00 pm ET) | September 1, 2026 (Full application, invited only, 5:00 pm ET)
Funding Amounts: Up to $12 million direct costs per award (max 5 years); total program budget up to $60 million
Summary: Supports patient-centered comparative effectiveness research to improve screening, treatment, and support services for sensory health conditions across the lifespan.
Key Information: LOI required; only invited applicants may submit full proposals; individuals may not apply as PI.
Description
This funding opportunity from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) seeks high-impact, patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER) projects that advance care and outcomes for people living with sensory health conditions throughout their lives. Eligible research should address evidence gaps in screening, treatment, support services, and interventions for sensory disorders affecting vision, hearing, smell, touch, taste, proprioception, vestibular, and interoceptive systems. PCORI encourages projects that enhance early detection, improve care coordination, and address mental health and stigma, with a focus on patient-centered and community-engaged approaches that inform real-world health decisions and promote equitable access to high-quality care.
PCORI is especially interested in studies addressing:
- Increasing screening and early detection for people with sensory health conditions, especially in underserved communities.
- Improving treatment and care coordination, including use of assistive technologies and integration of services across care settings.
- Enhancing support services to improve mental health and reduce stigma for individuals with sensory health conditions and their care partners.
Robust engagement with patients, families, care partners, and community stakeholders is required throughout the research process.
