ABSTRACT:
Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are essential for understanding health-related quality of life, mental health, and functional recovery following injury. Yet, these tools are rarely adapted to capture the lived experiences, cultural values, and social determinants of health for priority populations, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, who bear a disproportionate burden of injury in Australia. This systematic review examined the use of PROMs in observational trauma studies involving Australian adults (≥18 years), with a focus on equity and Indigenous engagement. Searches of Medline (OVID), CINAHL (EBSCO), and Scopus identified prospective cohort and longitudinal studies on trauma-related injuries. Data were appraised using CREATE and PROGRESS-PLUS frameworks to assess cultural inclusion and equity-sensitive reporting. Across 11 studies, 17 PROMs were identified, most commonly SF-36 and PCL-C. Findings revealed persistent physical and mental health impairments post-injury, yet equity considerations were minimal. None of the studies met all PROGRESS-PLUS criteria, and Indigenous knowledges were absent. Priority populations, including Indigenous peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, women, and people with disabilities, were frequently underrepresented or excluded. These gaps underscore the urgent need for culturally safe, inclusive PROMs that reflect diverse recovery experiences. Embedding equity in outcome measurement is critical to advancing trauma care, informing policy, and achieving health justice for all populations.