This study looking at the type of facility that cared for rural injured patients reminds us that the majority of trauma care for rural patients occurs in non-trauma centers. This included some of the most severely injured and for many definitive care was received at these centers.
This may lead to lack of inclusion in trauma registries and under valuing the care being delivered by non-trauma centers. Protocols to facilitate transfers, air medical protocols and availability along with tele-health all are important in rural trauma care. Non-trauma designated centers are a critical part of the trauma network for rural residents and their value can not be ignored.
References
The Contribution of Rural Non-trauma Hospitals to Trauma Care
Kaufman, Elinore J. MD, MSHP*; Prentice, Carter MD†; Williams, Devin BA‡; Song, Jamie MPH§; Haddad, Diane N. MD, MPH§; Brown, Joshua B. MD, MSc?; Chen, Xinwei MS¶; Colling, Kristin MD#; Chatterjee, Paula MD, MPH¶
