The Medical College of Wisconsin: Response to U.S. National Institutes of Health Indirect Cost Rate Announcement

Milwaukee, Feb. 10, 2025 – The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), as the state’s largest private research institution, is deeply concerned by the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) directive reducing contractually negotiated Facilities and Administration (F&A) rates for all existing and ongoing research awards to 15 percent, effective today, Feb. 10, 2025.

Delays and reductions in support for life-saving bio-medical research will have immediate and long-term consequences, directly impacting the timeline for developing treatments and cures for cancer, heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and much more. Even brief disruptions can halt clinical trials, prevent patient recruitment, and delay the publication of critical findings, affecting the number of patients who could benefit from new treatments. These delays not only hinder scientific progress but also have real-world implications for patients waiting for breakthroughs, highlighting the urgent need for timely support and funding.

The changes have understandably raised questions and concerns about their potential impact on cures for the future, our patients, families, students, team members, future health workers, and the community.

At MCW, we are unwavering in our commitment to well-being and health for all. Foundational to that commitment is MCW’s extensive medical research, which tirelessly seeks to advance health and develop life-saving treatments. MCW faculty annually lead or collaborate on over 3,800 research studies, including clinical trials.

MCW will stay focused on the positive impact of our work as we gain clarity on those changes from the federal government as they go through the judicial review process.