Morristown Medical Center has been reverified as a Level I Trauma Center through 2024 by the Verification Review Committee on Trauma of the American College of Surgeons — an honor it has held for 25 years.
The achievement recognizes Morristown Medical Center’s dedication to providing superior care for the most seriously injured patients.
Established by the American College of Surgeons in 1987, the 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. This spectrum encompasses the pre-hospital phase through the rehabilitation process.
Dr. Louis DiFazio, director of surgical critical care/trauma at Morristown Medical Center, said the hospital always is on the ready.
“No one wants to think about planning for a medical emergency or a life-threatening traumatic injury,” he said. “But, when it does happen, Morristown’s level of expertise provides the most comprehensive, life-saving, state-of-the-art treatment.”
In addition to being verified as an American College of Surgeons Level I Trauma Center, Morristown Medical Center’s newly renovated and expanded emergency department is designated as a Level II Trauma Center by the state of New Jersey.
About Morristown Medical Center
Morristown Medical Center is the flagship of the Atlantic Health System and has been selected as the top hospital in the state the past four years by U.S. News & World Report. Powered by a workforce of more than 18,000 team members and 4,800 affiliated physicians dedicated to building healthier communities, Atlantic Health System serves more than half of the state, including 11 counties and 4.9 million people.
The trauma center is supported by Atlantic Mobile Health’s Air and Ground Critical Care Transport teams to ensure rapid access to all patients in northwestern New Jersey. The modernized trauma department offers clinical bays with rapid access to diagnostic radiology, interventional procedures and surgical services. In addition to trauma, Morristown Medical Center’s emergency department handles complex orthopedic cases, advanced care for cardiac patients and comprehensive stroke and concussion care for acute neurological trauma and mild traumatic brain injuries.
Morristown Medical Center President Trish O’Keefe said the verification is a testament to the exemplary work and dedication of the staff.
“It underscores our reputation as the best hospital in the region for emergency and trauma care,” she said. “Among our extraordinary trauma team, we have subspecialty trained orthopedic trauma surgeons and neurosurgeons who are available 24/7/365, which is an incredible differentiator for our patients.”
Verified trauma centers must meet the essential criteria that ensure trauma care capability and institutional performance. The ACS Committee on Trauma’s verification program provides confirmation that a trauma center has demonstrated its commitment to providing the highest quality trauma care for all injured patients.