Monash University researchers have identified post-hospital care and communications as the weak links in the otherwise high quality of service in trauma care.

Led by Associate Professor Belinda Gabbe of the Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, the research team interviewed, between April 2011 and January 2012, 120 patients who had been treated in Victoria's trauma system between 12 and 24 months previously

The team of researchers conducted a comprehensive study of the experiences of trauma survivors in Victoria, concluding that communication of treatment options and prognoses were sorely lacking, while post-discharge care, particularly in outpatient facilities, was the target of most criticism by patients.

Associate Professor Gabbe said the survey was conducted to understand patients’ experiences with the trauma system and identify ways in which care could be improved. 

"The study allowed us to review the trauma system through the patients’ experiences," Associate Professor Gabbe said.

"Many expressed that they were lucky to receive such high quality care, supporting the investment in Victoria’s world class trauma system, but clear areas for improvement were identified." 

Many patients felt that they received insufficient and often conflicting information about their expected recovery and treatment options. As a result, they felt ill-equipped to make decisions about treatment and frustrated when their recovery did not progress as predicted.