The future of trauma care

Trauma affects over 135 million people every year worldwide. With predictions that trauma will soon be the third leading cause of death, the global social and economic burden is only expected to worsen. Reorganization of the trauma network came into effect in the UK in 2012, with the introduction of consultant-led major trauma centres serving local trauma units. Although shown to significantly reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with trauma, there are still large areas of the country not benefiting from this network. Further steps are needed to improve trauma service provision for future generations. This should include a review of our trauma management training, education of the public and the use of modern technology to improve our services and accessibility, enabling us to take major steps in the prevention of trauma.