An Otago University study has found understaffing and underfunding are compromising Christchurch Hospital’s specialist trauma assessment service.
The service was established three years ago, following success by similar teams overseas at improving long-term outcomes for patients.
But new research showed the service in Christchurch was never properly funded – and was failing to deliver measurable results.
The study identified “critical deficiencies” in the number of trauma surgeons, junior medical staff cover and trauma specialist nursing.
The lack of personnel led to other “major limitations” such as poor data management and restricted operational hours, meaning weekends weren’t properly staffed, and the entire department was closed during the Christmas and New Year period.
Otago University senior lecturer and general surgeon Chris Wakeman said the situation at the specialist trauma assessment service showed “we’re not as good as we should be”.
“This year, particularly, we’ve had to close the trauma service multiple times.”
Health New Zealand group director of operations Hamish Brown said trauma patients in Christchurch were receiving the care they needed, when they needed it and with good outcomes.
“Patients do not always present with singular trauma-related symptoms, and generally require multi-disciplinary care across various services. The trauma team is focused on trauma admissions, and is only one part of a wider multi-disciplinary team of highly trained and experienced clinicians.”
