State trauma registries: survey and update-2004

This study was undertaken to assess the current status of statewide trauma registries to facilitate a design and plans for a National Trauma Registry for Children.

A telephone survey was administered to state EMS or state trauma registry managers. Summary data for each state was compiled and state EMS or trauma registry managers reviewed the information for accuracy. Survey findings were compared with findings from a similar survey conducted in 1992.

Thirty-two states reported an active state trauma registry, an increase of seven states since 1992. Thirteen additional states and the District of Columbia are discussing or planning the development of a state trauma registry. One state had a registry but hospitals were not submitting data at the time of this survey. Only four states have no plans to develop a trauma registry. Twenty-nine states with registries require all hospitals to submit data; 15 of these obtain data from trauma centers only. The most commonly reported uses for trauma registry data include advocacy, injury surveillance, education and training, and research. The least commonly reported use is for reimbursement analysis.

Since 1992, progress has been made in developing state trauma registries. Although the concept of a national trauma registry data collection based upon 45 existing state registries, as well as from the District of Columbia, is appealing, concerns about data comparability require resolution. Furthermore, additional work would be required to create a representative sample from which national estimates of injury or outcome could be based.