Trauma Centers, Forensic, Phatologist

Trauma centers are hospitals specially equipped to provide emergency medical services to patients suffering from traumatic injuries. Trauma is defined as any life-threatening occurrence that causes injuries. Trauma can be either accidental or intentional but regardless, it stands as the leading cause of death among Americans under 44 years of age. The development of trauma centers was a result of the realization that trauma requires complex medical care, such as specialized medicine and surgery. In the United States, trauma centers are required to meet the criteria established by the American College of Surgeons, designated by different “levels”. These levels ranged from Level-1 to Level-3, with Level-1 designating the most capable hospitals. This higher capability is determined by the availability of trauma surgeons and advanced medical diagnostic equipment. Conversely, lower levels of trauma centers may only provide initial care and stabilization before transferring the trauma victim to another, higher level trauma center.

The different rankings of trauma centers, as determined by the ACS, ranges from comprehensive care (Level-1) to limited care (Level-3). A Level-1 trauma center is required to maintain a high level of medical care to trauma patients. For example, they are required to have a certain number of surgeons and anesthesiologists on duty at all times, as well as an education program, preventive and outreach programs. The 24-hour coverage of surgery provides trauma patients with many surgical specialties as well, including neurosurgery, radiology, internal medicine, or critical care. In addition to be a teaching hospital, Level-1 trauma centers also possess a research program, as well as being a leader in trauma education.

A Level-2 trauma center usually works with a Level-1 center. Level-2 trauma centers are capable of providing comprehensive trauma care for trauma victims, and also possesses the clinical expertise of a Level-1 institution. Level-2 trauma centers possess all essential specialities, personnel, and equipment 24-hours a day. However, unlike a Level-1 trauma center, these institutions are not required to have a research program or a surgical residency program. As a result, these trauma centers are not teaching hospitals.

A Level-3 trauma center possess the necessary resources for emergency resuscitation, surgery, and intensive care for most trauma victims. A Level-3 trauma center, however, does not have the full availability of medical specialists like the other two level distinctions. They often act as a back-up for Level-1 and Level-2 trauma centers and provide care of very severe injuries. They are often considered community-based or rural hospitals.

In some states, there are Level-4 trauma centers acting as a replacement for Level-3 trauma centers. A Level-4 trauma center provides evaluation, stabilization, diagnostic capabilities, and transfer to high level trauma centers. The operation of any trauma center is extremely expensive, leading to under-served areas. Although trauma centers have a helipad for receiving patients from another hospital, it is important that trauma center coverage is extended to meet the medical needs of all Americans.