Abstract

Abstract Background. Since Mississippi is largely rural, most of the initial care given to trauma patients is at small community hospitals. This study examined the impact of the institution of a formal trauma program on trauma care at such a hospital. Methods. All trauma cases at a single institution during 1998 were retrospectively analyzed. Cases were stratified into two groups, which depended on whether trauma care was given before or after institution of the trauma program. Various parameters were evaluated and compared. Results. The disposition of trauma cases changed after institution of a formal protocol: both transfers to trauma centers and hospital admissions decreased, while the number of cases cleared in the emergency department (ED) increased. The percentage of cases inappropriately managed also decreased. Conclusions. Institution of a formal trauma program increased the efficiency of resource utilization and improved the level of care received by trauma patients.