Bay Shore Hospital Named Level 1 Trauma Center

BAY SHORE, NY — The American College of Surgeons has designated South Shore University Hospital a Level 1 trauma center, according to a statement from the hospital.

Level 1 trauma centers are the highest designation, which means they provide the highest level of care for a patient presenting after a traumatic injury, according to the National Library of Medicine.

Level 1 trauma centers offer round-the-clock care by onsite board-certified critical care specialists and trauma surgeons, the statement said.

But hospital officials are still aiming for more. They plan to work with the New York State Department of Health to obtain state designation as a Level One Trauma Center, joining Stony Brook University Hospital, Nassau University Medical Center and North Shore University Hospital in title holders.

“Earning a Level 1 trauma designation is an achievement for our hospital, symbolizing our commitment to providing the highest standard of emergency care,” SSUH's trauma medical director Matthew Bank, MD, said in the statement. “This prestigious status means that our community and residents can trust they have access to comprehensive, life-saving services delivered by a team of expert professionals, ready to respond to critical situations with unparalleled skill and dedication.”

There are three levels of ACS trauma center verification, each defined by specific standards. These standards denote the spectrum of care that must be available to the injured patient at the facility, along with other expectations related to research and educational contributions to advance the field and increase capacity.

“This designation has been the culmination of several years of dedication and hard work by our entire team,” said Lynn Pellicci, trauma program manager. “It reflects our excellence in patient care, rigorous training, and the continuous improvement of our emergency services.”

According to the ACS, Level I trauma centers must be capable of providing system leadership and comprehensive trauma care for all injuries and have adequate depth of resources and personnel. Most Level I trauma centers are university-based teaching hospitals due to the resources required for patient care, education and research.

“The significant investment in advanced medical technologies and comprehensive facilities has been pivotal in reaching this milestone,” said Stephen Bello, regional executive director of Northwell’s Eastern Region. “Our team is now even better equipped to handle the most critical and complex cases, ensuring that every patient receives the lifesaving care they need, right here at home.”