In some parts of Georgia, it could take an injured person as long as 90 minutes to reach a trauma center. Even when patients arrive, they may not get adequate care because many of the trauma centers in the state are using outdated equipment. Many centers are losing money, but providers and state officials seeking more funding to upgrade facilities say they aren't getting the support they need. The state's trauma commission has approved funding for a study to help make a stronger case with legislators to secure the resources necessary to improve care. Later this year, the American College of Surgeons will conduct a statewide assessment of trauma facilities and services. The plan is to use the results of the study to urge legislators to fund new trauma centers around the state, increasing emergency response services and expanding helicopter transportation to trauma centers.
For more info:
- see the Atlanta Constitution story