To help fill gaps in emergency room care, U.S. Rep. Michael Burgess (R-TX) on March 30 sponsored a bipartisan bill that would permit the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) to continue assigning military trauma surgeons to civilian trauma centers.
The Military Injury Surgical Systems Integrated Operationally Nationwide to Achieve ZERO Preventable Deaths Act, H.R. 2416, also known as the MISSION ZERO Act, which is cosponsored by U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (D-FL).
If enacted, H.R. 2416 would amend the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize a military and civilian partnership for trauma readiness grant program, according to the congressional record bill summary.
Such partnerships allow military trauma care teams to gain exposure to treating critically injured patients and increase readiness for when these units are deployed, providing greater patient access and further advancing high-quality trauma care, says a bill summary provided by Rep. Burgess’ office.
“The MISSION Zero Act established a grant program to foster a partnership between our military and civilian trauma providers to bolster public health preparedness measures,” said Rep. Burgess, vice chairman of the U.S. House Rules Committee. “Our military has made incredible strides in delivering trauma care, saving precious lives that would have otherwise been lost.
“Americans’ lives have been saved by this expertise strengthening our civilian trauma centers and systems,” he added. “I thank Congresswoman Castor in joining me to ensure that care is always readily available.”
The American College of Surgeons endorsed H.R. 2416, which has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee.
“The MISSION Zero Act provides ongoing support for military and civilian medical teams to hone their skills in intense trauma environments and keep health professionals ready to care for service members,” Rep. Castor said, adding that she was “proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to grow these unique medical partnerships.”