Services for sufferers of major trauma to be improved

Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey has announced plans to improve the care provided to those who suffer major trauma.

The plans include the establishment of a regional network for major trauma in Northern Ireland with a Regional Major Trauma Centre developed at the Royal which will be supported by an annual investment of £300,000.

The plans follow an extensive public consultation exercise by the Department on proposals set out in “Improving Services for Major Trauma”

Announcing the plans, the Minister said: “Each year around 370 people in Northern Ireland suffer from major trauma. This is often life threatening and requires a prompt and coordinated approach to treatment if lives are to be saved. Typically cases may involve major head and neck injuries, cardiothoracic injuries, including penetrating chest wounds, and less frequently, serious abdominal injury.

“To improve the care and outcomes for major trauma patients, I will be establishing a regional network for major trauma in Northern Ireland with a Regional Major Trauma Centre developed at the Royal. I will also be investing some £300,000 annually to support the Centre in carrying out its regional role.

“In practice this will mean, that in future, patients with major trauma should only be admitted to the Regional Major Trauma Centre and, as far as possible, should be taken directly. The Ambulance Service will play a key role in ensuring that this is done quickly and safely.

Referring to the role of other hospitals the Minister stated: “Steps to improve trauma care will in no way diminish the role of existing A&E Departments. Accident and emergency units throughout Northern Ireland will continue to play an important role in managing a wide range of conditions, including a spectrum of trauma cases and, if appropriate, in resuscitating patients prior to transfer to the regional trauma centre.”

Notes to Editors:

• “Improving Services for Major Trauma” was issued for consultation in January 2007. A total of 47 responses were received.
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