Supporting the future of pathology through the RCPA Foundation
The RCPA Foundation aims to promote the study and understanding of disease, and how it is diagnosed and managed, by sponsoring key pathology projects in areas such as education and research. Dr Kevin Carpenter joined the Foundation board in 2012 and explains more about what the Foundation is and who it benefits.
“Through the Foundation, we actively invest in better health for future generations by funding initiatives that help us gain a greater understanding of the causes of disease. This could include improvement in earlier detection, discovering new treatment options or finding ways to better manage chronic disease.
“As pathology is the cornerstone of the detection and treatment for almost all diseases, it is important that we support our pathologists and scientists in developing that understanding,” said Dr Carpenter.
The Foundation offers support by making funding available for Fellows, Trainees, and Faculty Fellows in the form of scholarship programs, research projects, grants/awards and other special projects. The Foundation also supports initiatives that will educate healthcare professionals and the public on advances in pathology and the vital role it plays in the delivery of high-quality healthcare.
“We administer a diverse number of grants and awards which RCPA Fellows and Trainees may apply for. They support things such as travelling fellowships to gain international experience, equipment and consumables for research projects, pathology education and training, and local capacity building in the South Pacific and South-East Asia region to name a few.
“Of course, the ultimate benefit is to the community through developing the individuals and programs which will enhance quality pathology services in the years to come. Many of our award winners have gone on to become leading researchers crediting the Foundation with giving them a start in this highly competitive field,” said Dr Carpenter.
Each of the Foundation’s grants and awards have specific terms of reference and strict application criteria to allow assessment by an independent grants subcommittee. This committee uses a scoring rubric to evaluate each submission, selecting the best applications for recommendation to the Foundation Board, and ultimately RCPA Board, which approves the awards.
The RCPA Foundation does not receive any ongoing government funding and therefore relies on the generosity of the community to achieve its objectives and aspirations.
“The Foundation aims to develop a capital base to support and expand our grants and awards through investment earnings. Ultimately that capital comes from donations and bequests, primarily from the RCPA Fellowship. A number of individuals have made substantial contributions, but every Fellow is encouraged to make a tax deductable voluntary donation as part of their annual subscription.”
“It has been a great honour to be involved with the RCPA Foundation from its inception. I trust we will be supporting the future of pathology for many decades to come. I would like to thank all involved, especially Eve Propper and Rachel Johnson for their invaluable support of the Foundation,” said Dr Carpenter.
