[Challenges of implementing a geriatric trauma network : A regional structure]

Area of Science:

• Trauma Surgery
• Geriatrics
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Increasing incidence of orthogeriatric injuries necessitates specialized care.
• High prevalence of comorbidities in geriatric trauma patients requires interdisciplinary treatment.
• Establishment of geriatric trauma centers by German surgical and geriatric societies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a conglomerate network structure for geriatric trauma center certification.
• To define and implement structural and organizational standards for geriatric trauma care.
• To assess the feasibility and impact of a novel network model in geriatric trauma surgery.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a conglomerate network structure across two hospital locations and two external geriatric clinics.
• Adherence to DIN EN ISO 9001:2015 standards for quality management in defining structure and organization.
• Development of a manual detailing operational procedures and requirements for certification.

Main Results:

• A 70% increase in geriatric trauma cases observed between 2008 and 2016, with specific diagnoses rising by up to 360%.
• Successful certification achieved, followed by necessary improvements and a planned re-audit.
• Multiprofessional teams prepared and implemented improvements across all locations.

Conclusions:

• Network structures present a viable alternative to classical cooperation models in geriatric trauma care.
• This model may help alleviate staffing shortages in specialized geriatric trauma units.
• Further evaluation of geriatric trauma registry data is needed to confirm improved medical care outcomes.