UPMC Western Maryland was recently redesignated as a Level III trauma center by the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS).

UPMC Western Maryland has earned a Level III trauma center designation for the commitment to provide medical professionals and facilities to best treat trauma patients, and to reduce the morbidity and mortality of the residents and visitors in Maryland.

A Level III designation requires a resuscitation unit, operating room and intensive care unit available at all times, as well as an on-call trauma surgeon, neurosurgeon and orthopedic surgeon available at the facility within 30 minutes of the trauma call, along with an on-call anesthesiologist with a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) who is present in the hospital. Additionally, UPMC Western Maryland provides interventional radiology and cardiothoracic surgery available at all times — services that are required in only Level I trauma centers in Maryland.

For those who experience trauma and need hospital care, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) works to ensure that patients are sent to the closest hospital that provides the right care to address their special needs. Maryland’s system of care works to ensure that patients are promptly transported to the most appropriate hospital with the ability to decrease deaths and disability that results from traumatic injury.

“We are proud to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to care for our region,” said Michele Martz, president of UPMC Western Maryland. “When a patient experiences a traumatic situation, getting to a facility that can treat them as soon as possible is critical. We are always ready to provide lifesaving care close to home, and this designation shows the commitment our staff has to caring for our friends, families, and neighbors in the communities we serve.”