Statewide trauma system fails to reduce Ohio fatal injury rate

Despite the introduction of a new statewide trauma system aimed at reducing fatal injuries in Ohio, the rate of such deaths actually increased 44 percent between 2000 and 2011 (Source: “Trauma system to be vetted,” Columbus Dispatch, May 5, 2013).

“A well-functioning trauma system should result in a decrease in mortality. We definitely are not seeing that,” said Dr. Steve Steinberg, who is a trauma surgeon at Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center and a member of the state’s lead trauma agency — the Board of Emergency Medical Services.

The negative trend has fueled momentum for a possible overhaul of Ohio’s trauma system, with supporters of reform hoping for legislation this fall.