Hospital level interventions to improve outcomes after injury in India, a LMIC

Abstract

Background & objectives Trauma is one of the leading causes of disability and death, worldwide. Ninety per cent of trauma related mortality occurs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Despite this, there is paucity of literature emanating from LMICs with studies that present and/or evaluate feasible interventions that can have a measurable impact on outcomes after injury, primarily mortality. The current article aims at developing such interventions key elements of implementation and measures of compliance and impact. Methods A literature review was conducted to evaluate the status of injury care among LMICs worldwide. Based on this review, interventions were identified/developed, that (i) were feasible to implement within the constraints of available resources; (ii) could be implemented within a two year timespan; and (iii) would improve outcomes primarily, mortality. These interventions were then discussed at a symposium of experts and stakeholders from around the world. Results The literature review identified gaps across the entire spectrum of injury care at all levels – primary, secondary and tertiary prevention. Additionally, lack of data systems capable of ensuring quality of care and driving performance improvement was identified. Utilizing the review as the basis and focusing on hospital level interventions, one policy intervention, five in-hospital interventions and one major research question were identified/developed that met the defined criteria. Interpretation & conclusions Gaps in trauma care in LMICs at every level and in data systems were identified. Feasible interventions that can be implemented within the resource constraints of LMICs in a reasonable timeframe and that can have a measurable impact on injury related mortality were developed and are presented.