Appendix 1
Terms of Reference—Ministerial Taskforce on Trauma and Emergency Services

The revised terms of reference for the Ministerial Taskforce on Trauma and Emergency Services are:

1. To advise on an appropriate system structure for integrated trauma and emergency services, considering the following issues:

• Demographic and demand trends and service and technology developments that will influence future service requirements.
• Role delineation of trauma and emergency services, considering metropolitan and regional service requirements.
• Optimal staffing, support services, facilities and clinical services associated with each role.
• Optimal number and location of such facilities, giving consideration to optimal patient care, the directions and developments outlined in the Metropolitan Health Care Services Plan, changes in demand, efficient use of resources, access and responsiveness and relevant government policies.
• Effective coordination and management of emergency patients between health care facilities.
• Effective collaboration of services between government, private and voluntary agencies.

2. To advise on appropriate structures for ongoing monitoring of the accessibility and responsiveness of trauma and emergency services, considering the following issues:

• Development of an effective system of quality assessment and quality assurance with ongoing reporting to the Government of the performance of trauma and emergency services.
• Emphasis on patient outcomes including mortality, morbidity, functioning, quality of life and patient satisfaction.
• Facilitation of best practice, quality improvement and other service improvement initiatives.
• The Department of Human Services Information Strategy and related information projects.

3. To advise on education and training issues relating to trauma and emergency services, including prevention and public education, where relevant.

4. To advise on priorities for research and development that will enhance the delivery of trauma and emergency services in Victoria.

The Taskforce will work in consultation with the Working Party on Emergency and Trauma Services. It is chaired by Mr Robert Doyle, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Health.