Variation in Services at Level I Trauma Centers in the U.S.
Author Information
Author(s): Ziran Bruce H, Barrette-Grischow Mary-Kate, Hileman Barbara
Primary Institution: St. Elizabeth Health Center, Youngstown, USA
Hypothesis
What resources are available at each responding level I trauma center and do all level I centers offer the same services?
Conclusion
There are no homogeneous criteria for being accredited as a level I trauma center, and the diversity of services may impact the quality of care.
Supporting Evidence
- 66% of surveyed centers were university-affiliated, employing more surgeons across specialties.
- 39% of trauma centers do not have ACS accreditation.
- Only 49% of trauma centers provide on-call pay to trauma surgeons.
Takeaway
Not all trauma centers are the same; some have more doctors and better services than others, which can affect how well they take care of patients.
Methodology
A questionnaire was sent to 188 level I trauma centers, with 136 responding, to assess the variation in services provided.
Potential Biases
Responses may be biased based on the knowledge and perspective of the trauma coordinators or managers.
Limitations
Inconsistent accreditation criteria and reliance on responses from trauma coordinators may have affected data completeness.
Participant Demographics
The study included 136 level I trauma centers from 37 states, with varying affiliations (university, community, public).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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