Reviewing Emergency Medical System Needs Assessments Across The Indo-Pacific Region

Authors

Ian J. Scott, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Military Medicine

Advisor

Professor Colletti

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Emergency care is a significant contributor in morbidity and mortality in the Pacific region. Efforts to improve emergency care must start with a need assessment model appropriate for the region. The Department of Defense (DoD) and the Joint Trauma System (JTS) face numerous challenges in their goal of a Global Trauma System (GTS), with assessment of emergency care being a critical component of the trauma system. This review sought to identify current emergency systems needs assessment methods in use within the INDOPACOM. Once key terms were chosen, searches of PubMed and Cochrane databases were performed. A total of 554 results were identified, of which 239 were screened, and 5 ultimately met the inclusion criteria. Data extraction was performed by the sole author using both closed and open-ended questions and compiled.

A significant gap exists in the literature regarding the use of emergency medical system assessment methods within the Pacific. This significant gap in understanding severely limits the JTS’s goal of building a GTS that will meet the region-specific needs across the Pacific. Whether selecting an existing model or creating a new one, greater attention must be paid to the unique regional needs of the Pacific. If developed appropriately the DoD can strengthen partnerships across the region with ally and partner nations to promote knowledge sharing and improve global healthcare outcomes. The ten-year timeframe and the limitation to English-language articles may have limited the current understanding of the situation. Further research, conducted through partnerships with key stakeholders and regional governments, could counteract these limitations.

Keywords: Pacific, emergency care, systems, needs assessment, medical system, global trauma system

Recommended Citation

Scott IJ. Reviewing Emergency Medical System Needs Assessments Across The Indo-Pacific Region. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2025; 7(3).