The American Lymphedema Framework Project (ALFP)
is a national collaborative initiative developed under the
leadership of recognized clinical experts and investigators in
the field of lymphedema.
The ALFP project is a collaboration with clinicians,
researchers, organizations, patient support groups,
and industry in partnership with the International
Lymphoedema Framework.
Through its creation, the American Lymphedema
Framework Project will establish a leadership role in:
- defining best practices of lymphedema care
- increasing lymphedema awareness and treatment options
- improving clinical outcomes
- establishing quality research programs
- establishing a minimum data set for clinical care and research
- influencing health policy
Jane Armer, PhD, RN, Director
University of Missouri Center for Lymphedema Research,
Practice, and Health Policy
American Lymphedema Framework ProjectIncreasing awareness of lymphedema |
| Current Lymphedema Treatment Practices
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| Compression Garments
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- 20% of LE patients use compression garments and bandages
- 0.52 garments per LE patient are purchased each year
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| Physical Therapy
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- 12% of LE patients utilize physical or occupational therapy (PT/OT)
- 1.63 PT/OT outpatient visits per LE patient per year
- 0.86 PT/OT visits for manual lymph drainage per LE patient per year
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| Pharmaceuticals
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- 0.16 prescriptions filled per LE patient per year
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"Overall utilization [of services] among lymphedema patients is
low, with treatment considerably underutilized."
Source: Analysis of Assembly Bill 213: Health Care Coverage
for Lymphedema, California Health Benefits Review Program
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Even though lymphedema (LE) can be
greatly improved by appropriate management,
many patients receive inadequate
treatment because they are:
- unaware that treatment is available
- do not know where to seek help
- do not have adequate resources
The American Lymphedema
Framework Project will serve as a
national and international resource to
clinicians, investigators and patients.
By creating awareness of treatment
options, the American Lymphedema
Framework Project will improve the
overall well-being of patients with
lymphedema through increased utilization
of therapy, garments and other medical equipment.
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American Lymphedema Framework Project
Jane Armer, PhD, RN, Director
University of Missouri Center for Lymphedema
Research, Practice and Health Policy
Phone: (573) 882-0287
Email: armer@missouri.edu
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| Potential Stakeholders in the ALFP
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- Patients with or at risk of lymphedema
- Healthcare providers from various disciplines
- Professional associations
- Patient advocacy groups
- Industry representatives
- influencing health policy
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| Current Collaborators in the ALFP
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- American Cancer Society (ACS)
- Lymphology Association of North America (LANA)
- National Lymphedema Network (NLN)
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