Indigenous Measures for Protecting and Addressing Critical Trauma (IMPACT) – Project protocol

Objective: The Indigenous Measures for Protecting and Addressing Critical Trauma (IMPACT) project aims to transform trauma care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by embedding Indigenous knowledges and culturally responsive practices into trauma systems. 

Methods: Using Knowledge-Interface Methodology, the IMPACT will be implemented across two South Australian trauma sites through four phases: establishing trauma profiles and lived experiences; co-designing relational clinical quality indicators and patient-reported outcome measures; piloting and evaluating the program using RE-AIM QuEST framework; and translating findings into national trauma systems. Guided by an Aboriginal Governance Council, the project ensures Indigenous Data Sovereignty and community-led decision-making. 

Results: IMPACT will lead to the co-design of relational clinical quality indicators and patient-reported outcomes that enhance cultural safety in trauma care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. 

Conclusion: IMPACT will demonstrate improved cultural safety in trauma care, increased use of Indigenous-led quality indicators, and enhanced patient-reported outcomes. IMPACT will build capacity among Aboriginal researchers, foster clinical champions, and provide a replicable model for national reform. Implications for Public Health: IMPACT lays the groundwork for developing culturally responsive quality of life tools tailored to priority populations, improving outcome measurement and advancing health equity.