The Center for Medical Technology Policy (CMTP) has assisted the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) in the development and implementation of the American Joint Replacement Registry (AJRR). Most notably, CMTP has worked to engage key experts and stakeholders in the development of AJRR, while providing general strategic guidance to both AAOS and AJRR staff. This work built on the strategic framework and key relationships established at the September 2008 stakeholder meeting convened by CMTP in collaboration with the AAOS and the Brookings Institution.
Prior to that time, it had been difficult to establish sufficient alignment of the key stakeholders (industry, CMS, FDA, hospitals, etc) to obtain the level of support necessary to secure initial funding commitments in support of the AJRR. As a result of these efforts, the level of enthusiasm across multiple organizations was raised to a sufficient degree that the AAOS board approved start up funding for the AJRR, while the medical device industry, payers, and other stakeholders also offered financial assistance.
Recognizing the importance of public involvement and input on the AJRR, the AAOS Board of Directors contracted with CMTP to convene a Public Advisory Board (PAB) for the registry in 2010. The PAB has outlined priority areas, developed a formal charter, and outlined a strategy for expansion of membership and participation in AJRR committees. Pilot data collection began in late 2010 and was completed in July 2011 at sites including UCSF Medical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and the Cleveland Clinic. The AJRR is now recruiting an additional 150 participating sites by mid 2012 and is committed to expansion of the levels of data collected by facilities and physicians.
Currently, CMTP continues to support the PAB as it expands its membership and the scope of its work on behalf of AJRR, working closely with the Board Chairperson and with AJRR staff.