The Arkansas Department of Health has re-designated Unity Health – White County Medical Center as a Level III Trauma Center as part of the statewide trauma system. 

Unity Health RN and Trauma Program Manager Margaret Duggan said the designation as a Trauma Center by the state demonstrates to the community Unity Health’s commitment to meet defined trauma standards set by the trauma section at the ADH.

“We have demonstrated to the ADH we continue to be appropriately equipped and trained to care for, stabilize and determine if transfer of the trauma patient to another facility for a higher level of care is required,” Duggan said. “Specific certifications and training are required and must be current by all ED physicians and nursing staff in order to keep our Level III designation. Being located in a rural area, knowing their own community hospital has the equipment and the trained professionals to provide the care a loved one may need in a trauma situation gives peace of mind.”

Trauma Level re-designation occurs every three years by the Trauma Section at the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH). Evaluators’ survey and review the facility to make sure Emergency Departments are following correct protocols and meeting specific standards. 

“The re-designation is important for our community because if we are taking care of our patients the correct way, they have the best chances of survival, health and healing,” LPN, Trauma Program Registrar Jasper Fultz said. “Everyone plays a role in taking care of trauma patients from the nurses, physicians and surgeons to lab and X-ray technicians.”

Unity Health first applied to become part of the Arkansas Trauma System in 2012, becoming the first hospital to receive a Level III designation in the North-Central region of the state at the time. With the re-designation, Unity Health will continue to provide definitive care for emergencies and stabilize those who may need transportation to a Level I or Level II Trauma Center. 

For more information about the Arkansas Trauma System and the designation process, visit healthyarkansas.gov.