On
February 4th, 2009, Reps. Randy Forbes (R-VA) and Patrick Kennedy
(D-RI) introduced H.R. 855, the “Enhancing SIMULATION (Safety in
Medicine Utilizing Leading Advanced Simulation Technologies to Improve
Outcomes Now) Act of 2009. On March 17th, 2009, Sen Tom Harkin (D-IA)
introduced the companion legislation in the Senate, S. 616.
The
reintroduction of this legislation, coupled with the renewed interest
in healthcare reform in Washington, gives us an unparalleled
opportunity to advance the field of medical simulation.
The
time is NOW to contact your Senators and Congressman to ask for their
support for this bill. Please also ask the leadership of your
specialty society for a letter of support.
For
more information about how to get involved and to download tools for
advocacy, please check this page periodically . Another excellent
source of updates on the progress of the legislation is the Library of
Congress site at http://thomas.loc.gov/. Search HR 855 or S616.
The Society for Simulation in Healthcare fully supports Position Paper sas been released. Additionally, the Public Affairs & Government
Relations Committee, in partnership with Advanced Initiatives in
Medical Simulation (AIMS) organization, will provide you with
information and tools to get involved in this effort. Our Medical Simulation Health Policy Tool Kit and other companion documents, available in our resource center for
download, will give you the ability to become an effective advocate for
simulation at the local and federal level.
In
order for this ground-breaking legislation to gain vital early momentum
we need your help getting your Senators and Representatives signed on
as co-sponsors. |