The FOP Trust field team made significant strides in expanding its referral network during July 2025. Key outreach efforts included visits to Tamil Nadu State Children’s Hospital in Chennai and Indira Gandhi Children’s Hospital in Bengaluru. These hospitals responded positively and agreed to refer children suspected of having FOP to the Trust.
In addition to hospital visits, the team connected with 45 orthopedic doctors during a conference in Bangalore. Many expressed interest in staying involved and committed to referring patients when needed. These connections are vital in identifying undiagnosed patients early and ensuring they receive the right care without delay.
This outreach isn’t just about forming partnerships—it’s about creating faster pathways to diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care. In many cases, general practitioners and orthopedic doctors are the first point of contact for children showing early symptoms. Educating them about FOP increases the likelihood of accurate and timely referrals.
Beyond referrals, the Trust also helped new families navigate their first FOP experience. This included scheduling appointments, covering consultation costs for families in need, and following up after visits to ensure patients understood their care plans. The field team’s work bridges the gap between community awareness and clinical support.
These expanding partnerships signal a shift toward a more integrated, responsive care model for FOP. The Trust will continue to build these relationships, ensuring that no patient slips through the cracks.
To learn more, visit: https://foptrust.org/
For international resources, visit: https://www.ifopa.org/
