Current Aus-ROC Endorsed Projects

“Aus-ROC Endorsed Projects” are formally authorized by the Aus-ROC Steering Committee. The process of Endorsement is given in the Aus-ROC Governance Document.

Developing a national strategy for improving out-of-hospital cardiac arrest outcomes

Our Australian-wide research has shown significant regional variation in OHCA incidence and outcomes between regions as small as local government areas (LGAs). This is strongly associated with variations in modifiable factors, such as cardiovascular risk factors, bystander CPR and ambulance response times. A national or state approach to correcting this variation may waste valuable resources.

In this research, we will use innovative mathematical simulations to predict the impact of potential intervention strategies on lives saved in every LGA across Australia. Such strategies may include local public awareness campaigns, CPR training or optimising a region’s defibrillator and community first-responder programs. Project outcomes will include a national implementation strategy, which will inform and direct future interventions as to what will have the greatest potential to increase survival in every Australian LGA.

Funding: Heart Foundation Vanguard Grant 2024-2025

Contact Investigator: Professor Janet Bray (janet.bray@monash.edu)

Study Progress: to commence in 2024

The EXACT Study

The Reduction of oxygen after cardiac arrest (EXACT) is a multi-centre, randomised, controlled trial to determine whether reducing oxygen administration as soon as possible following successful resuscitation from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) compared to current practice of maintaining 100% oxygen improves outcome at hospital discharge.

Funding: NHMRC Project grant

Contact Investigator: Professor Steve Bernard (S.Bernard@alfred.org.au)

Status: Data analysis.

Regional Variation in cardiac arrest outcomes

Despite evidence to suggest significant regional variation in OHCA incidence, survival and bystander CPR rates, geographic information system and spatial analysis have not been widely used to understand the reasons behind this variation. This is particularly the case in Australia and New Zealand.

The aim of this research is to quantify and describe the regional variation of OHCA incidence and survival across Australia and New Zealand.  The research also aims to identify factors that drive regional differences in OHCA survival and identify modifiable factors associated with survival. This will directly inform strategies aimed at improving outcomes from OHCA, with a particular emphasis on rural areas.

The research results will directly inform ambulance strategies aimed at improving OHCA survival

Funding: Heart Foundation Vanguard Grant

Contact Investigator: Professor Janet Bray (janet.bray@monash.edu)

Study Progress: Underway