Fundación Kovacs

Historical profile

Fundación Kovacs was a nonprofit institution specializing in neck and back pain. It began work in 1986 and ceased operations in 2016. During its 30 years, it accounted for 90.5% of Spain's investment in scientific research in this field, according to figures published by the foundation.

Areas of work

• Research: The Spanish Network of Back Pain Researchers conducted scientific research to improve diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation for neck and back pain and make health-care resources more efficient. The foundation said it was responsible for most of Spain's scientific output in this field.
• Health care: Kovacs Back Units were multidisciplinary clinics that used health technologies after their effectiveness and safety had been scientifically established. Each patient received an individual assessment so clinicians could apply the approaches best supported by current research for that case.
• Prevention and health education: The foundation's Back Website offered accessible, research-based information about neck and back conditions. It also developed prevention campaigns for schoolchildren, with downloadable materials.

Publications and resources

The foundation's website provides access to scientific publications, public education materials, a back-health comic book, scientific and technical documents, and videos featuring researchers and experts discussing back-pain treatment in Spain's public health system.

Related websites

• www.pronosticodolorcervical.es: Estimates how clinical, personal, and imaging characteristics affect the likelihood of neck-pain improvement.
• www.pronosticodolorlumbar.es: Estimates how treatments affect the likelihood of lower-back-pain improvement.
• www.pronosticoNRT.es: Estimates the likelihood of improvement following neurorreflexotherapy.
• www.espalda.org: Detailed information about the back and related conditions.
• www.adopcioninnovacionessanitarias.es: Recommendations for evaluating and adopting health-care innovations in Spain.