Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center''s Level 1 Trauma Center designation was renewed by the Trauma Subcommittee of the State Emergency Medical Services Advisory Commission. No deficiencies were cited.
The primary reviewer for the commission, Lawrence Lottenberg, M.D., a surgeon from Hollywood, Fla., described the facility as, "…overall, a showcase trauma center for the state of North Carolina."
In its report, the commission''s staff cited the trauma center''s staff as its major strength.
"A major strength is the outstanding and longstanding trauma and emergency medicine leadership that has lent continuity to the overall trauma program. Commitment is broad based, from a wide spectrum of the trauma team. In addition, the pediatric trauma service is well developed. There is also an impressive physical plant including an excellent ICU (intensive care unit) and well-designed emergency department trauma resuscitation area. Critical care research is outstanding."
J. Wayne Meredith, M.D., director of trauma services at the Medical Center, said, "Our community is fortunate to have the commitment to trauma from our Level I Trauma Center and the Piedmont Regional Trauma System."
The commission renewed Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center''s Level I trauma center designation for the maximum four-year period. The Medical Center first received the distinction in 1982. The facility handles approximately 58,000 emergency department visits annually.
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Contact: Jim Steele, Rae Beasley or Mark Wright (336) 716-4587.