Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center Reverified As a Level 2 Trauma Center

Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center has been reverified as a Level 2 Trauma Center by the Committee on Trauma (COT), an achievement that recognizes devotion to optimal care for injured patients. The verification marks the 22nd consecutive year of being a verified Level 2 Trauma Center and St. Rita’s seventh successful recertification. 

The COT was established by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) to help improve all phases of care for injured patients. Verified trauma centers, such as St. Rita’s, must meet the strict criteria that ensures quality of trauma patient care and institutional performance.

“This verification demonstrates the commitment of the St. Rita’s trauma team not only to compassionate patient care but also to the rigorous standards put in place to ensure that the highest quality of care is provided to those most in need,” said Dr. Jason Bowersock, trauma medical director. “A traumatic injury requires swift medical treatment and St. Rita’s continues to ensure that this advanced level of care is available to the entire region.”

The verification process includes an on-site review of the hospital. There are five different categories in the verification program, from the pre-hospital phase all the way through to rehabilitation.

According to the ACS, Level 2 Trauma Centers can provide definitive care for all injured patients. This is done by 24-hour immediate coverage by general surgeons and various specialties (i.e. orthopedic, neurosurgery, anesthesiology, emergency medicine, radiology and critical care). In addition, community trauma prevention programs and continuing education for staff are required.

“St. Rita’s is proud of the work that the trauma team has done to ensure that this verification is maintained, and a high level of care is available to all trauma patients who come to the medical center for treatment,” said Dr. Matt Owens, chief clinical officer for Mercy Health – Lima. “We are thankful to our physicians, nurses and entire staff for their hard work as well as our community who entrust their care to St. Rita’s.”