The importance of level 1 trauma services in U.S. hospitals.

In this quantitative research study, the organizational characteristics, market factors, and profitability of U.S. acute care hospitals that provide the highest intensity of trauma services are assessed. Results indicate these hospitals are larger, have a higher occupancy rate, higher expenses per discharge, and a lower length of stay. Hospitals with Level 1 trauma centers have a positive return on assets. The study has managerial implications associated with individual hospital performance and policy implications on resource allocation.