LITTLE ROCK -- The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) has become the only medical center in Arkansas to be certified nationally as an adult Level 1 Trauma Center by the American College of Surgeons. To achieve the certification, hospitals go through a rigorous review process and must demonstrate they can provide the highest level of trauma care for the most serious and urgent cases.

The Level 1 verification extends through Dec. 16, 2019. A Level 1 medical center must have the capability of providing leadership and total care for every aspect of injury, from prevention through rehabilitation. It also has a major responsibility for providing leadership in education, research and system planning.

The verification process includes a two-day, on-site visit and the review of the care provided to trauma patients over the prior 12 months. UAMS Medical Center also completed a pre-review questionnaire to give site surveyors a better understanding of existing trauma care capabilities including care, resources and quality improvement.

The trauma center features a designated operating room for trauma cases, and patients needing x-rays or a CT scan can receive those in the Emergency Department with no need to transport them to the hospital for imaging