title: State trauma system evaluation: a unique and comprehensive approach.
abstract: We detail the unique and comprehensive approach to evaluation taken by the state of Washington before development and legislation of a statewide trauma system plan. The various types of data collected and the rationale for collecting them are discussed. In addition, the advantages, disadvantages, and limitations of individual study methods are elucidated. These data-gathering approaches may serve as a guide for other states or regions contemplating comprehensive trauma system development.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois.
authors.forename: T J
authors.initials: TJ
authors.lastname: Esposito
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Nania
authors.forename: R V
authors.initials: RV
authors.lastname: Maier
mesh_terms: D003625:Data Collection; D004630:Emergencies; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D006801:Humans; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care; D013221:State Health Plans / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D014193:Trauma Centers / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000592:standards*; D014481:United States; D014861:Washington