'Falling through the cracks': Researchers call for better trauma recovery

Survivors of major trauma need more support with patients struggling to access care, University of Otago researchers say.

The university's studies found that of 203 patients who suffered severe trauma, 18 percent experienced probable post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Research supervisor Dr Chris Wakeman said the findings highlight the pressing need for a more patient-centred approach to trauma recovery.

"We cannot simply treat the physical injuries and assume the recovery process is complete."

The researchers are asking for routine mental health screening for trauma patients, particularly between six months and two years post-injury.

Researchers found nearly 15 percent of patients reported difficulties accessing follow-up care, while 25 percent experienced challenges navigating ACC processes.

He said the recovery journey extended beyond leaving the hospital, the psychological distress persisting for months or years.

Younger patients, and people involved in vehicle-related trauma like car crashes, were a greater risk according to the studies.

Dr Wakeman said the findings showed psychological distress following major trauma is relatively common.

He said there were limited systems in place to ensure those with PTSD received ongoing psychological assessment and support.

One of the studies revealed only 22 percent of survivors received a formal PTSD diagnosis, while more than half had never undergone any mental health assessment.

A co-author on all three studies, Dr Laura Joyce, said many patients were seemingly "falling through the cracks".

She said there was often the assumption that patients would seek help themselves, however, many either do not recognise the symptoms or face issues accessing support.

"Patients who are already struggling with anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress are often the very people who find it most difficult to navigate complex healthcare and compensation systems."

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