Prior to 2012, patients who experienced major trauma injuries were taken to their nearest hospital. Re-organisation of the trauma system in 2012 ensured that patients who had suffered major trauma were taken to newly designated major trauma centres (MTCs) where specialist services were available to manage the care of these patients.

A study in 2018 reviewed data from April 2008 to March 2017  and concluded that Major Trauma Networks were associated with increased numbers of patients being managed in MTCs, benefiting from increased consultant led care and improved imaging. This whole system change improved both the care process for patients and their outcomes after severe injury.