Examining the association between military service history and outcomes after burn injury

Abstract

Introduction: The association between military service history and long-term outcomes after burn injury is unknown. This study uses data from the Burn Model System National Database to compare outcomes of individuals with and without self-reported military service history.

Methods: Outcome measures were assessed at 12 months after injury including the Veterans Rand-12 Item Health Survey/Short Form-12, Satisfaction With Life Scale, Patient Reported Outcomes Measure Information System 29, 4-D Itch scale, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Check List - Civilian Version, self-reported Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and employment status. This study included 675 people with burns of whom 108 reported a history of military service.

Results: The military service history group was more likely to be older, and male. Those with military service were most likely to be on Medicare insurance and those without military service history were most likely to be on Private Insurance/HMP/PPO. No significant differences were found between those with and without military service history in the outcome measures.

Conclusions: Further research should examine differences in outcomes between civilians and those with military service history, including elements of resilience and post traumatic growth.

Keywords: Burn injury; Burn model system, Trauma outcomes; Civilians; Military service; Resilience.