The George Washington University Hospital Re-Verified as Level I Trauma Center, Highest Possible

Wednesday, December 18, 2019
The George Washington University Hospital Re-Verified As Level I Trauma Center, Highest Possible

The George Washington University Hospital (GW Hospital) Center for Trauma and Critical Care (CTACC) has once again achieved verification as a Level I Trauma Center by the Verification Review Committee (VRC), an ad hoc committee of the Committee on Trauma (COT) of the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This achievement, which is the highest possible in adult trauma care, recognizes GW Hospital’s dedication to providing optimal care for injured patients.

“GW Hospital is proud to provide critically complex, lifesaving care to individuals throughout the greater DC region,” says Kimberly Russo, Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director of GW Hospital. “As we continue to expand our services, we are proud to remain verified as a Level I Trauma Center, representing our ongoing commitment to meeting the vital healthcare needs in our area.”

Last month, GW Hospital opened its helipad to expand and expedite access to its Level I Trauma Center services. Since opening, 15 individuals have been brought to GW Hospital via air medical services.

Learn more about trauma care at GW Hospital →

The American College of Surgeons (ACS) is a scientific and educational association of surgeons that was founded in 1913 to raise the standards of surgical education and practice and to improve the care of the surgical patient. Established by the ACS in 1987, the COT's Consultation/Verification Program for hospitals promotes the development of trauma centers in which participants provide not only the hospital resources necessary for trauma care, but also the entire spectrum of care to address the needs of all injured patients. In order to achieve verification, GW Hospital underwent an on-site review by a team of experienced site reviewers.

“Trauma patients have profoundly complex needs which is why it is vital that our entire spectrum of care meets the highest industry standards,” says Babak Sarani, MD, Director of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery at GW Hospital CTACC. “As a verified Level I Trauma Center, we are equipped to provide care to the most severely injured and critically ill patients from the time they are on the way to our emergency department through rehabilitation and discharge. We also serve as a crucial resource for disaster and emergency preparedness regionally.”

In addition to this most recent verification, GW Hospital is designated a Comprehensive Stroke Center by the Joint Commission, the highest level possible; a Level 4 Epilepsy Center by The National Association of Epilepsy Centers, the highest level possible; and a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Furthermore, GW Hospital was named one of the ‘Best Regional Hospitals’ in the Washington, D.C. region by U.S. News and World Report for 2019-2020.