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Parkinson's Foundation Launches Innovative Care Awards

On September 23, 2025, the Parkinson's Foundation made an exciting announcement with the launch of the "Paul Oreffice Innovations in Care Awards." These awards aim to support innovative approaches in clinical care, enhancing the health and everyday experience of individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD). The initiative opens the door for clinicians at varying stages of their careers to secure funding for pioneering research into new care delivery models.

Parkinson's disease presents unique challenges and complex care needs, which is why the Foundation, guided by its President and CEO John L. Lehr's vision, is dedicated to uplifting the quality of life for those affected. "People with PD face complex care needs," shared Lehr, emphasizing the importance of innovative practices that can revolutionize care in this field.

The genesis of the Paul Oreffice Innovations in Care Awards arose from collaborative discussions at the Parkinson's Foundation National Roundtable on Care and Innovation held in Washington, D.C. This gathering of professionals from various fields focused on establishing urgent priorities to enhance the lives of those living with PD. The awards perfectly align with the Roundtable’s core themes, targeting forward-thinking strategies poised to make a substantial impact in patient care.

Sneha Mantri, MS, MD, and Chief Medical Officer of the Parkinson's Foundation, highlighted the significance of new care delivery models. "Through these awards, we can cultivate an evidence base that can lead to nationwide standards of care recommendations," she stated. Furthermore, the findings from these awards are anticipated to play a crucial role in the National Parkinson's Project, which became law in 2024, and could attract additional support for the ongoing improvement of Parkinson's care.

Eligibility for the awards extends to all licensed clinicians in the United States, as long as they can showcase a significant dedication to caring for patients with PD. Physicians applying must have completed a residency in neurology or demonstrate how their training is relevant to supporting individuals with PD, while allied health professionals are required to possess an advanced degree. Applications must address one or more of the categories recognized by the National Roundtable, including:

• - Care Models (e.g., telehealth, advanced practice providers)
• - Technology (e.g., wearables, artificial intelligence)
• - Resilience (e.g., dietary plans, exercise routines, mindfulness practices)

The application process begins with a letter of intent due by October 31, 2025, which will undergo an initial screening. Proposals that demonstrate merit will then be invited to submit full applications by February 2026, with the awards set to roll out in the spring following.

These awards are named in tribute to Paul Oreffice, a forward-thinking business leader and ardent advocate for Parkinson’s disease who served on the board of the National Parkinson Foundation and held the position of Chairman from 2003 to 2007. His legacy continues as these awards aim to confront the most pressing healthcare challenges faced by those living with PD.

For any inquiries surrounding the award application process, interested parties may contact the Foundation via email.

About the Parkinson's Foundation

Established in 1957, the Parkinson's Foundation strives to enhance the lives of individuals affected by Parkinson’s disease through improved care practices and accelerating research towards discovering a cure. The organization has invested over $474 million into various research initiatives and clinical care programs since its inception. Further details and resources can be found at Parkinson.org or by calling 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636).

Understanding Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) impacts approximately one million people in the United States, ranking as the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer's disease, making it the 14th leading cause of death in the nation. Characterized by a gradual decline in motor function—manifesting through symptoms such as resting tremors and diminished facial expressiveness—PD also brings about several non-motor symptoms, including depression and anxiety. Though effective treatments exist, a definitive cure remains elusive, with nearly 90,000 new cases diagnosed each year in the U.S.