“The ECCC is staffed by people who understand and value emergency care, and who have the wherewithal to tackle issues of importance to ACEP members and our patients,” Dr. Kellermann continued. “But it’s still in its infancy. Hopefully, Congress will ratify the presidential directive that created the ECCC by authorizing its existence and directly appropriating funding.”

The ECCC is supported by the Obama administration, but it needs ACEP’s support as well, Dr. Kellermann said. “That’s the best way to ensure that this program becomes the ‘lead federal agency’ envisioned by the IOM.”

More information on the ECCC and CEMC is available at www.hhs.gov. Dr. Handrigan also suggests looking to professional societies for additional information. n