Are trauma centers important? You bet your life!

Trauma centers and trauma systems are vital community assets. By aggregating resources and personnel dedicated to the care of the injured patient, they lower trauma morbidity and mortality. The trauma center is a key educational component of all members of the health care team. Complex and advanced medical care is coordinated in a fiscally responsible manner that facilitates and improves patient care and stimulates innovation. The threat of more domestic terrorism and mass casualties in the post 9-11 world has exponentially increased the need for, and responsibilities of, trauma systems. Healthy trauma centers are an indispensable component of a healthy community.