The Trauma Center at WVU Medicine Wheeling Hospital has been verified as a Level III by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). The announcement by the Verification Review Committee of the ACS’s Committee on Trauma (COT) states the achievement recognizes the trauma center’s dedication to providing optimal care for injured patients.
Work to achieve the verification was a team effort led by the program’s Medical Director, Howard Shackelford, MD, and program Manager Stephanie Isaly, RN. Both of them report directly to Alison Wilson, MD, who oversees the Level I Trauma and Critical Care Program at WVU Medicine’s Ruby Memorial Hospital.
“Congratulations to all the hard work of this program’s leadership, particularly Dr. Shackelford and Stephanie Isaly,” Dr. Wilson said. “I also applaud the entire team of registrars, nurses, physicians and all members of the multi-disciplinary trauma team throughout all phases of the hospital.”
She said the Level III verification shows that Wheeling Hospital is capable of providing 24/7 immediate management of all significant and life-threatening injuries.
“The community can be assured that quality care for severe injuries is provided at Wheeling Wheeling Hospital,” Wilson said.
Douglass Harrison, president and CEO of WVU Medicine Wheeling Hospital and Reynolds Memorial Hospital, said, “Our Level III Trauma designation is further evidence that the most advanced care in the region is happening at WVU Medicine Wheeling Hospital. The ACS surveyors who reviewed us were extremely complimentary of our hospital and the providers. Ultimately, it’s the highly trained providers who deliver the most advanced trauma care in the region and they do it each and every day without fail.”
Dr. Shackelford said, “This was a team effort. Thanks to all involved.”
Elements of Level III trauma centers include:
• 24-hour immediate coverage by emergency medicine physicians and the prompt availability of general surgeons and anesthesiologists.
• Incorporates a comprehensive quality assessment program.
• Has developed transfer agreements for patients requiring more comprehensive care at a Level I or Level II Trauma Center.
• Provides back-up care for rural and community hospitals.
• Offers continued education of the nursing and allied health personnel or the trauma team.
• Involved with prevention efforts and must have an active outreach program for its referring communities.