Strengthening Rural Trauma Care: RTTDC 4th Edition Comes to Samaritan Medical Center

Delivering high-quality trauma care in rural settings requires coordination, preparation, and a highly effective team. On May 18, 2026, healthcare professionals across the North Country have the opportunity to strengthen these critical skills through the 4th Edition of the Rural Trauma Team Development Course (RTTDC), hosted at Samaritan Medical Center.

Developed by the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma, RTTDC is built on a practical, team-based model designed specifically for rural facilities, where resources may be limited, but the need for a rapid, coordinated response is essential. The course emphasizes a structured approach to the initial assessment, resuscitation, and transfer of trauma patients, ensuring that providers are equipped to act decisively in high-stakes situations.

Participants will engage in both didactic learning and hands-on team performance scenarios that cover core clinical priorities, including airway, breathing, circulation, disability, and transfer to definitive care. The training also addresses special populations, performance improvement, and the communication strategies necessary to function effectively within a trauma system.

This course is designed for a broad, interdisciplinary audience, including physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, technicians, administrative staff, and EMS professionals. RTTDC is most impactful when delivered to a diverse team, reinforcing clearly defined roles, strengthening collaboration, and improving patient outcomes from arrival through transfer.

Participants will leave with the ability to organize and lead a rural trauma team, assess available resources and limitations, initiate early transfer processes, and implement performance improvement strategies that elevate care across their organization.

Thanks to grant funding, this course is offered free of charge, with digital course materials provided to all participants.

Anyone interested in attending the course need to register by CLICKING HERE by May 13.