Changes in Geographical Access to Trauma Centers for Vulnerable Populations in the United States, Author Manuscript

Abstract

Closures of trauma centers have accelerated since 2001. These closures may be disproportionately affecting disadvantaged communities. We evaluate how driving time between ZIP codes and nearest trauma centers changed nationwide from 2001–2007. During this period, 24% of the population experienced increased driving times to the nearest trauma center. Communities with disproportionately high numbers of African Americans, uninsured, people living in poverty and in rural areas were more likely to experience deteriorating access than other communities. Remaining trauma centers serving these communities should be allocated funding, and efforts to coordinate trauma care at the regional level should account for access disparities.