The History and Evolution of the Trauma Program Manager/Coordinator.

The role of the trauma program manager (TPM) has evolved since the early 1980s. Duties of TPM historically included broad responsibilities such as education, data collection, system, EMS, clinical activities, research, and quality assurance. The purpose of this study was to use survey sampling to evaluate self-perceived functions and scope of work of TPMs in the United States. Results show that TPMs from higher volume centers spend more time on program administration duties whereas TPMs from lower volume centers focus more on registry and clinical duties. Across time, the role has been expanded, refined, and customized, but much role variability remains.