The Minnesota Department of Health has redesignated CentraCare – Monticello as a Level 4 Trauma hospital. The recertification process, which occurs every three years, included an external review of the hospital’s resources and capabilities to care for trauma patients.

 To qualify for Level 4 designation, a hospital must establish a trauma program that meets state criteria and undergo a site visit focused on three key areas:

• Compliance with designation criteria;

• Progress made in addressing weaknesses identified in prior site visits;

• Strategies to support the hospital’s ongoing and future trauma care needs.

“As a hospital, our mission is to ensure that in moments of crisis, our community has immediate access to the highest standard of care,” said John Hering, MD, President of CentraCare – Monticello Hospital. “This redesignation as a Level IV Trauma Hospital reflects our ongoing commitment to saving lives, and it’s a direct result of the dedication and hard work of our extraordinary team.”

The Emergency Department at CentraCare – Monticello provides 24/7 emergency care with access to specialty physicians and critical care services. For a severely injured person, the time between sustaining an injury and receiving definitive care is the most important predictor of survival. Minnesota’s trauma system is a network of hospital and ambulance services that enhances the chance of survival regardless of proximity to a trauma hospital with a higher designation.

On average, trauma claims the lives of 4,300 Minnesotans annually. States with established trauma systems have seen survival rates increase by 15% to 20%. Minnesota began developing its comprehensive statewide trauma system in August 2005. Through its designation CentraCare – Monticello recognizes the vital role that communities, ambulance services, ambulances, and health care professionals play in the care and management of trauma patients.

“We are proud to be a trusted resource for the families we serve, and we will continue to stand ready to provide exceptional care, whenever it’s needed most,” said Hering.