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RACS ASC 2025
Barriers and Enablers to Accessing Follow-Up and Support Following Major Trauma
Verbal Presentation
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Verbal Presentation

1:57 pm

04 May 2025

Meeting Room C4.2

RESEARCH PAPERS

Disciplines

Trauma Surgery

Talk Description

Institution: Christchurch Hospital - Christchurch, Aotearoa New Zealand

Purpose Our research team previously investigated post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression in patients after major trauma. This sub-study investigated patient satisfaction with their follow-up care. Methodology Participants were selected from those who presented to Christchurch Hospital and included in the New Zealand Major Trauma Registry (NZ-MTR; Injury Severity Score [ISS] ≥12). Eligible participants were sent a questionnaire about follow-up and support after trauma (including assessments for PTSD, depression, and anxiety). Statistical analysis included Pearson Chi-square tests for independence for discrete variables and Mann-Whitney U tests for continuous variables (both two-tailed). Results 134 patients responded (32.4% response rate). 21(16%) reported difficulties with follow-up care, insufficient follow-up duration the prominent theme. Those who met the threshold for PTSD (p<0.001), anxiety (p<0.001), and depression (p<0.001) were more likely to report discontent with follow-up. 33(24.6%) reported challenges with Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC), primarily related to pressure to return to work, poor communication, and financial stress. Those who met threshold for PTSD (p<0.001), anxiety (p<0.001), and depression (p<0.001) were more likely to report discontent with ACC. Conclusion This study stresses barriers to post-trauma recovery. Those with PTSD, anxiety, and depression are more likely to report dissatisfaction with follow-up and ACC. It’s pertinent to note that this is correlational research, so strong causal inferences cannot be drawn. Improving follow-up care and reducing ACC-related pressures, may enhance mental and physical recovery and patient satisfaction after major trauma.
Presenters
Authors
Authors

Dr Sarah Logan - , Dr Duncan Finlayson - , Andrew Mccombie - , Dr Daniel Jemberie - , Dr Nikita Quinn - , Dr Chris Wakeman -