SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb., –The trauma program at Regional West Medical Center has been verified as a Level II Trauma Center by the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma (COT). The achievement recognizes Regional West’s continuing dedication to providing optimal care for trauma patients throughout western Nebraska and eastern Wyoming.

Regional West’s trauma center is one of only three verified Level II trauma centers in the state of Nebraska, and has been verified as a Level II trauma center since 1996. The program was last verified in 2008.

“As a Level II trauma center, we can assure our region’s residents that when they come to our hospital, they will receive the best trauma care possible, 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Rommie Hughes, MD, FACS, a Surgeon at Regional West Physicians Clinic-Surgery, Vascular Diagnostics, and Medical Director for Regional West’s Trauma Services.

Established by the American College of Surgeons in 1987, the COT’s Consultation/Verification program for hospitals promotes the development of trauma centers in which participants provides not only the hospital resources necessary for trauma care, but also the entire spectrum of care necessary to address the needs of injured patients. This spectrum encompasses the pre-hospital phase through the rehabilitation process.

Dr. Hughes views the trauma center as only a piece of the entire care cycle. “An effective trauma system is a continuum of care that begins with pre-hospital care and progresses through hospitalization and rehabilitation,” he said. “It takes the dedication and expertise of area volunteer squads, community hospitals, ambulance services, Air Link, and Regional West health care providers to make the trauma program a success.”

Regional West Health Services, with over 1,800 employees, provides comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people and communities of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota and Wyoming. With over 110 active physicians, 95 percent of whom are board certified or board eligible, plus an additional 25 consulting specialists, Regional West offers care that spans more than 30 medical specialties. Regional West Medical Center, a subsidiary of Regional West Health Services, is accredited by The Joint Commission and is one of three Level II Trauma Centers in Nebraska.