University of Michigan Health-West has been reverified as a Level II Trauma Center by the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma (ACS-COT) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). Initially designated in 2017, UM Health-West remains one of 25 facilities in Michigan to hold this designation.
The MDHHS assigns trauma designations from Level I (highest) to Level IV (lowest), with Levels I and II offering the same level of care for trauma patients. Both levels must maintain a comprehensive trauma program with a wide range of specialists and life-saving equipment available 24 hours a day. Level I facilities also engage in teaching and research alongside their trauma services.
As a Level II Trauma Center, UM Health-West provides immediate care for all types of injuries, with surgeons and specialists available around the clock. While capable of handling most trauma cases, very complex cases may be transferred to a Level I Trauma Center.
“Survival chances significantly increase when trauma victims receive prompt care after a severe injury,” said Dr. Eric Mitchell, a surgeon at UM Health-West. “Our Level II trauma capabilities ensure that patients receive critical care immediately, right here in West Michigan.”
Launch of Ortho/Neuro/Trauma Department
With the advancement of the trauma program, the UM Health-West Center for Restorative Care was officially designated as the Ortho/Neuro/Trauma Unit in October 2023. This unit began treating additional trauma patients, requiring the nursing staff to undergo extensive training to meet the needs of the changing patient population. In this evolving multidisciplinary program, new roles have been created to ensure optimal health outcomes for patients. The trauma department at UM Health-West is composed of a patient-focused nursing team that attends rounds, assists in care, reviews charts, and helps create policies and procedures—all to ensure patients receive the best trauma care possible.
Level II Trauma Center status signifies that UM Health-West has met rigorous standards set by the ACS-COT, including a thorough external review of the hospital’s capabilities and performance. This verification process is essential in matching injured patients with the appropriate resources swiftly and efficiently.
“Achieving reverification as a Level II Trauma Center demonstrates our team’s dedication and expertise in delivering comprehensive trauma care,” said Travis Smith, manager of trauma services at UM Health-West. “This recognition ensures that our patients receive the highest standard of care when they need it most.”
The MDHHS designates trauma facilities based on verification by either ACS-COT or the state. The designation period aligns with a three-year verification cycle, ensuring that facilities consistently maintain high standards.
