For Immediate Release

March 19, 2004

Washington, DC - Today, U.S. Representatives Gene Green (D, TX-29) and James C. Greenwood (R, PA-8) introduced the bipartisan Trauma Research and Access for Urgent Medical Attention (TRAUMA) Act to bolster federal support for the development of trauma systems.

 

“When you’re the victim of a traumatic injury, mere seconds can make the difference between life and death,” said Green.  “Unfortunately, too many trauma victims are being diverted to Dallas and Austin because our area doesn’t have an adequate trauma system in place.”

 

“Trauma systems are a critical, lifesaving component of the services that provide necessary care to our friends and loved ones who are seriously injured in automobile accidents, falls, and other traumatic events,” Greenwood stated.  “It is critical that we provide these systems greater resources and flexibility in the use of these resources so that we can improve the quality of care and expand access for all Americans to needed trauma care.”

 

The TRAUMA Act updates and reauthorizes the Trauma Systems Planning and Development grant program, which was originally authorized in 1990.  This legislation provided states with resources to implement and revise their trauma plan, as well as improve coordination among trauma systems and Emergency Medical Services providers. 

 

The TRAUMA Act will help states to both improve their trauma systems as well as increase access to trauma systems.  These funds can be used to increase access to pre-hospital care, develop protocols for the transportation of seriously injured patients, expand communications systems, and to increase education, training and technical assistance.  The bill also encourages trauma care research, data collection and dissemination at the Department of Health and Human Services.

 

“At a time when any city could be the victim of a terrorist attack, we need to make sure our trauma system is prepared,” said Green.  “This legislation makes sure our states and localities have the resources they need to develop a world class trauma system.”

 

###