By Duke Medicine News and Communications

DURHAM, N.C. -- Duke University Hospital has received re-verification as a Level I Trauma Center from the American College of Surgeons, certifying that Duke provides the highest level of surgical care to trauma patients.

Level I status, the highest of three trauma center rankings, indicates that Duke has medical specialists available in a variety of areas 24 hours a day to treat trauma patients.

"We're pleased to have received re-verification as a Level I Trauma Center," said Jeffrey Doucette, R.N., associate operating officer for emergency services. "We strive to consistently provide the highest quality of care to patients who come to us with an assortment of injuries – both minor and major – and are in need of urgent assistance."

To achieve national verification as a Level I Trauma Center in North Carolina, a hospital must first receive a similar designation from the North Carolina Office of Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Duke first received its designation as a Level I Trauma Center from the North Carolina Office of EMS in 1982.

All Level I centers have surgeons and anesthesiologists on duty 24 hours a day. They also maintain an educational program, as well as preventive and outreach programs. Specialists in certain areas, such as neurosurgery and radiology, are also available quickly.

North Carolina has five additional Level I Trauma Centers, including the University of North Carolina Hospital at Chapel Hill, Pitt County Memorial Hospital, Carolinas Medical Center, WFU Baptist Medical Center, and WakeMed Hospital.