International Consensus for Minimum Common Data Elements for Tracking and Reporting Musculoskeletal Injuries in Military Settings: Results from a Delphi Consensus- MHSRS 2024

Rhon d, arden n, motte s, fallowfield j, fisher b, bullock g

Abstract accepted for oral presentation at the 2024 Military Health System Research Symposium

Musculoskeletal injuries threaten military readiness. The ability to aggregate data and make valid comparisons across settings, military branches, and nations is only possible when data can be harmonized. The purpose was to reach international consensus on the minimum core data elements that should be collected and reported when conducting injury surveillance in military settings.

Steering committee members were selected to balance expertise across clinical and research backgrounds, country, and military branches, along with policy, implementation, or clinical/scientific investigation related to musculoskeletal injuries in military settings (n=45). Pertinent parties were engaged to improve the overall question, understand research implications, and facilitate knowledge translations. A synchronous mixed pertinent party meeting (n=62) was performed to explore level of agreement by experts who were identified through the closeness continuum. The moderator presented each statement with discussion prior to voting. Participants voted anonymously. Each statement was scored on a scale of 0-10, with 0 representing no importance and 10 representing maximum importance. Comments could be submitted to facilitate further discussion and elaboration. A majority was needed for inclusion. Dissenting opinions were discussed and included in the final consensus document.

33 minimal data elements were recommended when conducting surveillance and reporting of injuries. This core checklist can be leveraged by clinicians, researchers and stakeholders when comparing and harmonizing data across studies, military service branches, and countries.