On April 14, 2009, the Federal Coordinating Council for Comparative Effectiveness Research will hold a public listening session regarding comparative effectiveness research and the Coordinating Council’s activities. By way of background, the Council was authorized by the ARRA as part of a major expansion of federal efforts to compare the effectiveness of different medical treatments, including both infrastructure changes and an infusion of $1 billion in funding for comparative effectiveness research. The Council is charged with helping to coordinate and guide investments in comparative effectiveness research, advising the President and Congress on federal comparative effectiveness research infrastructure needs, and reviewing federal agency organizational expenditures for comparative effectiveness research. The registration deadline for the meeting is April 13. Written statements also may be submitted.

4/20/09 Update:  A webcast of the session is available.