EMS & Injury Prevention System Branch

Big Island Trauma Advisory Council collaboration aims to provide quality care for our military trauma patients on the Big Island

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Kimberly Bastien RN, CEN CFRN—Trauma Program Manager

The collaborative efforts of the Big Island Regional Advisory Council (BITAC) support optimal care for trauma patients of the Big Island. Through the Hawaii State Trauma System, these types of collaborative efforts are possible and can improve outcomes for patients. Our discussions involving the US Military, included: 1) initiation of their medical evacuation procedures for the military training base on the Big Island, and 2) an introduction to their operations and how the trauma centers on the island can work collectively to care for the ill and injured military patients. The following captures some of the activities and partnerships involved:

• US ARMY MEDEVAC Team attended a BITAC meeting regarding future medical evacuation operations for Pohakuloa Training Area to Big Island Trauma Centers.
• US ARMY MEDEVAC Team Representatives arrived via Blackhawk aircraft to NHCH to attend this meeting.
• Representatives from all Level III Trauma Centers & Big Island Hospitals (North Hawaii Community Hospital, Kona Community Hospital, Hilo Medical Center, Kau Hospital, Kohala Hospital and Hale Hoola Hamakua) as well as the Hawaii Fire Department., Hawaii Life Flight, and American Medical Response were present.
• BITAC – Big Island Trauma Advisory Council (BITAC) is made up of the representatives named above including the State Trauma Coordinator &  EMS and Injury Prevention System Branch Representatives meets quarterly with the mission to establish a framework for an island wide inclusive system of trauma care.