The Samueli Institute conducts research on the science of healing

Integrative Healing Practices for Veterans [VET-HEAL]

Background: The Department of Defense in collaboration with the Department of Veteran’s Affairs has contracted with the Samueli Institute for Information Biology (SIIB) to conduct the program entitled Integrative Healing Practices for Veterans (VET HEAL). The scope of responsibility includes the identification of potential research opportunities, scientific peer review and the management of the approved scientific protocols. The program will fund projects in basic and clinical research that identify specific complementary and alternative (CAM) approaches that assist the veteran soldier healing from physical and psychological trauma, and those veterans requiring palliative care

Management: The project is a coordinated effort between the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS), the VA and SIIB. Scientific peer review and management of those receiving funding is conducted by SIIB after recommendations are made to USUHS and the VA. Approved funds can be utilized for personnel salaries, research equipment and supplies, travel, publications and patient care as related to research.

Focus: This program will support research that investigates the role of holistic health approaches in veterans. The areas of focus are:
1) Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) interventions and modalities that alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress syndromes.
2) The facilitation of rehabilitation.
3) Integration with palliative care regimens.
4) Improvement of overall function and wellbeing.

Veterans returning from deployment and conflict areas such as Iraq and Afghanistan are of particular interest.

Research Opportunities: This is a one-time solicitation. The application receipt deadline is March 28, 2005. Up to (6) projects will be funded for one year each. The planned research with specific aims expected to be completed in this one year period should be provided in detail. The annual cost should not exceed US $175,000 including overhead. The anticipated date of the award is August 1, 2005. Projects under this program can be accessed via the following hyperlinks:

RFA

Application Form