Sometimes a major success can fly under the radar. That’s why it’s important to recognize the 40th anniversary of the San Diego County Trauma System. On Aug. 1, 1984, the first trauma patient arrived at a trauma center. Since then, the system has resulted in reduced mortality and morbidity rates from traumatic injuries while becoming an example for trauma care systems around the world. The numbers tell the story:
- In 1984 — the year the system launched — the rate of preventable trauma deaths in San Diego County was 21%. Today it’s under 1%.
- Over 12,000 patients are treated in the system each year.
- More than 3 million residents in San Diego County are supported by the system.
Over 40 years ago, there was a recognition that patients suffering from severe injuries such as gunshots, car accidents, and falls required specialized care. Studies at the time found that people were 20 times more likely to die in counties like San Diego that had not developed an organized trauma system.
The many lives that have been saved — and that will be saved — are a testament to the importance of this collaboration. Hospital leaders who understood that urgent change was needed were able to work alongside other regional leaders to develop a comprehensive network of prehospital, hospital, and rehabilitative services that delivers rapid and coordinated care to trauma patients. What’s more, it’s a model of collaboration between San Diego County and the area’s six dedicated trauma centers: Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego, Palomar Medical Center Escondido, Sharp Memorial Hospital, Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego, and Hillcrest Medical Center at UC San Diego Health.
Among this system’s innovations is its data-driven approach to trauma care. The system continuously collects and analyzes patient data to monitor outcomes and identify areas for improvement. This commitment to an evidence-based approach has led to the development of new practices.
Equally as important, the system plays a crucial role in disaster preparedness and response in our region, providing a coordinated framework that can be activated in the event of a mass casualty incident.
As the San Diego Trauma System celebrates its 40th anniversary, it stands as a testament to collaboration, innovation, and dedication in saving lives and advancing medical care. It’s an initiative of which we should all be proud.