Translational research: turning research into advocacy

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Trauma Surgery
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Social determinants of health (SDOH) are increasingly recognized in trauma care.
• SDOH significantly influence patient access to surgery and contribute to disparities.
• Trauma surgeons face challenges in managing patients with complex social needs and viewing trauma as a chronic condition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of social determinants of health in trauma surgery.
• To advocate for a broader, public health-centered approach to trauma care.
• To emphasize the need for educating future surgeons on addressing SDOH.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on social determinants and trauma.
• Analysis of the impact of SDOH on surgical access and outcomes.
• Discussion of public health strategies applied to trauma and gun violence.

Main Results:

• Social determinants are major drivers of health and surgical disparities.
• Current trauma care models struggle to address patients' extensive social needs.
• A public health approach is essential for tackling the root causes of trauma.

Conclusions:

• Trauma care must integrate social determinants of health to optimize patient outcomes.
• Advocacy for patients and communities, addressing root causes of trauma, is vital.
• Educational curricula for surgical residents should incorporate this broader public health perspective.