AHA backs bill providing trauma support for gun violence survivors

The American Hospital Association (AHA) this week sent a letter of support for the Preventing and Addressing Trauma with Health Services (PATHS) Act (S. 2873), a Senate bill that would provide grants for high-quality, culturally competent trauma support and mental health services for individuals in communities affected by gun violence. The bill, which AONL also backs, would support Hospital-based Violence Intervention Programs (HVIPs) intended to foster safer communities. “HVIPs work to reduce retaliation and recidivism by engaging patients in the hospital during their recovery,” the letter noted. “This valuable and effective work continues after patients are discharged, providing an important network of support during their outpatient care.” (AHA News article, 10/28/21)