UH Lake West designated as Level 3 Trauma Center

Marah Morrison, The News-Herald, Willoughby, Ohio
·2 min read

Jan. 20—Ohio recently designated University Hospitals Lake West Medical Center in Willoughby as a provisional Level 3 Trauma Center.

According to UH, the designation was based on consultation from reviewers of the American College of Surgery Verification, Review and Consultation Program for excellence in trauma centers.

"It's crucial to deliver effective trauma care in the first hours after injury and research shows 85% of all injuries can be safely cared for in a Level 3 Trauma Center," said Dr. Robyn Strosaker, president and chief operating officer of UH Lake Health Medical Center. "I'm proud of our UH Lake West caregivers for securing this important designation."

The program is designed to help hospitals evaluate and improve trauma care, as well as provide objective, external review of institutional capability and performance. This is accomplished by an on-site review and assessment of the hospital's commitment, readiness, resources, policies, patient care, performance improvement and other features.

"We are delighted with the announcement that Lake West Medical Center is now designated as a Level 3 Trauma Center," said Willoughby Mayor Robert Fiala. "This investment reinforces UH's commitment to exceptional patient care for the residents of Willoughby and Lake County."

In order to become a Level 3 Trauma Center, a facility must demonstrate an ability to provide prompt assessment, resuscitation, surgery, intensive care and stabilization of injured patients and emergency operations. According to UH, trauma centers at this level have the following elements:

—Twenty-four-hour immediate coverage by emergency medicine physicians and prompt availability of general surgeons and anesthesiologists.

—Incorporation of a comprehensive quality assessment program.

—Development of transfer agreements for patients requiring more comprehensive care at a Level 1 or Level 2 Trauma Center.

—Continued education of nursing and allied health personnel or the trauma team.

—Involvement with prevention efforts and an active outreach program for its referring communities.

"The city is pleased with UH's investment in establishing a Trauma 3 emergency facility here in Willoughby," said Economic Development Director Tom Thielman. "This is a vital community asset that helps improve patient outcomes by having appropriate specialties available to treat traumas quickly."

UH operates a regional network of state-designated trauma centers to meet the needs of injured patients in Northeast Ohio and is a member of the Northern Ohio Trauma System, alongside Cleveland Clinic and The MetroHealth System.

In addition to Lake West, 24/7 emergency services in Lake County are also available at UH TriPoint Medical Center in Concord Township.