AAST Surveys
Understanding the Gaps in Mental Health Services for Trauma Patients at Risk for PTSD and Suicidality
Each year in the U.S., 2.5 to 3.5 million people are hospitalized for traumatic injuries, many requiring surgery. These patients are at increased risk for psychiatric conditions, like PTSD. These mental health challenges can lead to worse outcomes, including recurrent trauma, hospitalization, and even suicide. In response, trauma centers have piloted collaborative care models that integrate mental health treatment into trauma care, showing promising results. This research has led the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma to publish best practice guidelines promoting mental health screening and intervention for trauma patients. However, despite these guidelines, it remains unclear how widely they have been adopted. This study aims to address that gap by examining the current level of awareness and implementation among trauma care providers.
This is an anonymous, voluntary survey that should take only a few minutes to complete. By participating in this survey, you will help to provide a preliminary understanding of the mental health services that are being provided and the implementation of these guidelines. From this, we would hope to identify areas of improvement that can be acted upon to improve the care of trauma patients both in-hospital and post-discharge.
Open Date: 6-09-2025
Close Date: 8-31-2025