LINCOLN - Since starting the program in spring 2020, CHI Health St. Elizabeth’s General Level Trauma Center has continued to grow and expand its reach for patients in Lincoln and surrounding communities. From April 2020 to August 2021, the hospital treated more than 2,400 patients who suffered from a traumatic injury — which is a nearly 50 percent increase from the previous year.

“CHI Health St. Elizabeth’s General Level Trauma Center has added another important layer of care to the Capital City,” said Rick Fermelia, MD, FACS, Trauma Program Medical Director. “Having a trauma center on the East side of Lincoln provides quicker and increased access for those on this side of the city and outside town, as well. It’s also another option for patients.”

Earning a "General Level Trauma Center" designation is not an easy process. CHI Health St. Elizabeth was required to care for trauma patients, educate staff, and coordinate with local EMS while tracking patient data.

With the new designation, CHI Health St. Elizabeth is now able to provide care for patients who have experienced traumatic injuries like car crashes, assaults, falls, and sports injuries.

“A large portion of the traumatic injuries we see are orthopedic in nature, like fractures and joint injuries to the hips, shoulders, elbows, knees, legs, ankles, and the spine,” DeWitt said. “We also admit many patients with head injuries. These types of injuries are often due to falls and balance issues among individuals - and occur much more often than we think. Part of our trauma center’s dedication to our community is education. Our greatest hope is that we can prevent someone from becoming a trauma patient in the future.”

In addition, CHI Health offers free balance assessments at various clinic locations with physical therapy care and works with Safe Kids Nebraska, Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska, and EMS companies on continued outreach and education.

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