Academy Announces Sunsetting of O&PiQ Evidence Database
The American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (the Academy) today announces that its flagship evidence-database platform, O&PiQ, will sunset after five years of exceptional service to the orthotics and prosthetics (O&P) profession. Launched in 2020, O&PiQ was created as the profession’s only curated, evidence-based research search engine dedicated exclusively to O&P.
In 2016, a member-needs survey revealed a strong demand for an evidence-based research search engine tailored to O&P. The Academy responded by investing in the development of O&PiQ, which launched in 2020. Since then, the platform has provided students, residents, clinicians, educators, and researchers with streamlined access to high-quality O&P-specific evidence.
While O&PiQ has provided a useful resource for clinicians seeking quick access to relevant research, rapidly advancing AI technologies and large-scale commercial platforms now offer similar capabilities at a scale beyond the Academy’s resources. To remain responsive, efficient, and mission-aligned in its dissemination of research, the Board has made the strategic decision to sunset the platform.
“O&PiQ has been a valued resource, expanding access to high-quality O&P evidence. As technology evolves, the Academy remains committed to providing trusted research in the most effective and sustainable ways. We are grateful to the leaders and volunteers who shaped O&PiQ. Sunsetting the platform allows us to honor their work while continuing to advance our mission in support of the O&P community.”
—Dr. Gerald Stark, PhD, MSEM, CPO, LPO, FAAOP(D),
Academy President
Transition Timeline and Ongoing Research Dissemination
To support a seamless transition and uphold its commitment to evidence-based practice, the Academy has outlined the following plans:
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The O&PiQ platform will remain accessible through December 31, 2025; after this date, direct access will conclude.
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The Academy will continue to provide research updates using the search strategy developed for O&PiQ, thereby preserving the curated research-delivery pipeline that members rely on.
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In alignment with its mission, the Academy will continue to disseminate the latest O&P research through its Scientific Societies and Academy Exchange community groups, ensuring uninterrupted access to evidence-based resources.
Transition updates and information on accessing ongoing research feeds will be communicated through the Academy’s website and member channels.
Acknowledgments
The Academy extends its sincere gratitude to all who contributed to the development and success of O&PiQ. We thank the Academy Board of Directors for the initial investment; founding board members Brian Kaluf, BSE, CP, FAAOP, and Jared Howell, MS, CPO, FAAOP, for their leadership; and both Fanny Schultea, MS, MSEd, CPO, FAAOP(D), the platform’s first Director, and Nicolette Chamberlain-Simon, MPO, CPO, its current Director, for their stewardship. The Academy also thanks the O&PiQ Advisory Board for its guidance, as well as the curators, peer-review collaborators, and subject-matter experts whose work has kept the database current and trusted.
Looking Ahead
While the sunset of O&PiQ marks the end of one chapter, the Academy’s commitment to advancing evidence-based practice remains steadfast. Building on the strength of its professional community networks, the Academy will continue to deliver research insights, knowledge translation, and evidence-based resources that support clinical excellence. We remain dedicated to serving our members with integrity, innovation, and impact.