Congresswoman Barbara Lee toured Highland Hospital’s adult Level 1 Trauma Center and the Intensive Care Unit, which the American College of Surgeons (ACS) has recognized with the highest designation given by the national organization.

This recognition for excellence makes Highland Hospital the only adult Level 1 trauma facility in the East Bay.

“I am truly pleased with the high quality service being offered at Highland Hospital, and every patient in Oakland, and throughout the East Bay, should be confident that they are receiving the best care,” said Congresswoman Lee, speaking after the Aug. 3 tour of Highland.

“A majority of the patients seen at Highland Hospital, and throughout the Alameda Health System, are Medi-Cal recipients” she said. “Repealing the Affordable Care Act would have devastating impacts on their access to care, and the quality of care AHS is able to provide.”

Alameda Health System’s Highland Hospital provides essential health care services to all residents of Alameda County and treats more than 2,400 trauma patients each year; most of them are victims of traffic accidents and or suffering falls.

Level 1 is the highest possible designation for a trauma center, indicating the center’s 24/7 ability to treat all trauma incidents with the highest skill level. The Highland Trauma team earned the designation following one of the most rigorous verification processes in the country.

“Verification as an adult Level 1 Trauma Center validates the quality of trauma care we provide, and acknowledges all departments at Highland Hospital — not just the trauma surgeons and surgical subspecialists, but all departments that collaborate to save patient lives before, during and after their admittance to the Emergency Department,” said Gregory Victorino, M.D., chief of Trauma Division at Highland Hospital.

“This national recognition emphasizes that we are truly a comprehensive medical center, and solidifies our commitment to being a regional and national leader,” said Dr. Victorino.

Highland has been a designated adult Level II Trauma Center since 1980.

Oakland Post

Posts by Oakland Post