Trauma can strike anywhere — on highways, farms, in homes or during severe weather — and in a state as vast and varied as Kansas, a well-coordinated trauma system is critical. To meet that need, Kansas is divided into six trauma regions, each with a Regional Trauma Council made up of trauma centers, hospitals, EMS providers, local health departments, rehabilitation facilities and injury-prevention advocates. These councils monitor trauma care in their areas, identify opportunities for improvement and advise the Advisory Committee on Trauma, which in turn advises the Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). 

Ongoing professional education is central to the effort to strengthen this statewide system. While EMS license holders must meet specific trauma-related training requirements, providers across all disciplines — from emergency physicians to rehabilitation specialists — benefit from learning the latest treatment protocols, innovations in care and region-specific data. 

To support this effort, KU Area Health Education Center (KU AHEC) has partnered with KDHE to plan and promote Regional Trauma Conferences across the state. These events bring together multidisciplinary professionals for targeted, evidence-based education and collaboration. 

Conference sessions feature a broad range of topics, including crisis coordination, chest trauma, geriatric injuries, mass casualty incidents and victim services. New this year, a pediatric-focused second day addresses sepsis, pediatric trauma, recognizing signs of child abuse and more. 

Through these conferences, KU AHEC continues its mission of keeping Kansas health professionals connected to the latest innovations and treatment strategies, ensuring that communities across the state — rural and urban alike — have access to high-quality trauma care. 

Visit the KDHE website for upcoming conference details.