The Central Alabama System encompasses six counties: Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, St. Clair, Shelby, and Walker Counties.
Approximately 31,000 patients were entered in the trauma system in the first ten years of operation (October 2, 1996 to October 1, 2007).
The Birmingham trauma system averages 250 patients per month.
In 1993 (before LifeTrac) only 40% of severely injured trauma patients were being transported to a hospital which was prepared to care for the critically injured patient. Since October 2, 1996 (launch date of the Birmingham Trauma system), over 98% of severely injured trauma patients are routed to a trauma hospital prepared to receive and care for the critically injured patient.
LifeTrac's Bio/Chem surveillance and reporting capabilities were in development prior to the attacks on September 11th.
The trauma system was implemented with no legislation. Participation of the hospitals is completely voluntary.
The Alabama State Committee of Public Health has approved the system.
Hospitals participate voluntarily in the system by signing a contract with BREMSS. The contract requires them to meet certain facility, personnel and equipment standards. The contracts are renewed annually after a site visit and review of the previous year’s performance.
Approximately 2,500 EMTs in 180 organizations have been educated in the proper use of the trauma and stroke systems.
Initial very limited patient outcome studies reflect that patients who suffer closed head injuries or fractures of at least two major bug bones have improved outcomes due to the trauma system.
Incidents where no level one trauma hospitals are available to receive patients has declined significantly since the trauma system was started.
A method to assure accountability of EMS providers and hospitals in their care of severely injured trauma patients has brought about positive changes in all patient care.
The Trauma Communications Center (TCC) is a component of BREMSS. The TCC was capitalized and funded fully by UAB in its first year of operation. It was funded by UAB and all area hospitals in its second year of operation.
The Birmingham TCC is staffed at all times and keeps track of the availability of trauma and stroke hospitals to treat critical patients.
The TCC provides valuable communications services for emergencies involving large numbers of patients.