108th Congress

The Trauma Research and Access to Urgent Medical Attention Act of 2004

H.R. 3999

Background

Trauma systems are a critical, lifesaving component of the services that provide care to those seriously injured in automobile accidents, falls, and other traumatic events. The Trauma Research and Access to Urgent Medical Attention Act of 2004 would have reauthorized and expanded the Trauma Systems Planning and Development grant program. It would have increased States’ resources for implementation and revision of their trauma plan. The bill also contained provisions intended to improve coordination among trauma systems and Emergency Medical Service providers.

Provisions of the Legislation/Impact on NIH

In addition to other provisions, the bill would have amended the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), to establish a comprehensive program of basic and clinical research on trauma, including the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of trauma-related injuries. The bill would have also required the Director of NIH to:

• Establish and implement a plan for carrying out the activities of the comprehensive program, taking into consideration the recommendations contained in the report by the NIH Trauma Research Task Force
• Foster collaboration between and coordinate the activities of NIH components involved in trauma research

Status and Outlook

H.R. 3999, the Trauma Research and Access to Urgent Medical Attention Act of 2004, was introduced by Representative Jim Greenwood (R-PA) on March 18, 2004. Upon introduction, the bill was cosponsored by Representatives Michael Bilirakis (R-FL) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and was referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. No further action occurred on this legislation during the 108th Congress.