Where Seconds Matter Campaign

Where Seconds Matter is an annual national campaign organized by the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma (ACS COT) to invite members of Congress to visit trauma centers in their home states. The goal is to educate policymakers on the critical role of trauma care, highlight system challenges, and advocate for policies that strengthen trauma systems, workforce, and emergency preparedness.

This initiative aims to ensure that at least one member of Congress (House or Senate) visits a trauma center in every state, targeting the August recess as a prime window for taking advantage of Congress member availability.

Objectives

• Strengthen Relationships–Establish long-term connections between trauma surgeons and Congressional representatives.
• Educate Policymakers–Provide members of Congress with firsthand exposure to trauma care challenges and opportunities.
• Promote Public Awareness–Leverage media and social platforms to highlight the importance of trauma systems and advocacy efforts.

Become a Where Seconds Matter Champion

All COT members are eligible to be a Where Seconds Matter (WSM) Champion. With the assistance of the ACS staff, WSM Champions will carry out a central role in the campaign’s success by acting as the frontline in Trauma Advocacy. WSM Champions identify trauma centers to host visits, coordinate logistics, and work with hospital leadership and Congressional offices.

Get involved and start the process of hosting a member of Congress at a trauma center in your state.

For any questions about the Where Seconds Campaign, please email wsmtrauma@facs.org.