Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville has been re‑verified as a Level I trauma center by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This achievement maintains the hospital’s position as one of only six nationally verified Level I trauma centers in the state.
Level I trauma centers must demonstrate the ability to provide system leadership,
advanced clinical care, 24/7 surgical coverage, research, education and community outreach
according to ACS standards. Re-verification confirms that NGMC Gainesville continues to meet,
and exceed, these requirements.
“This re-verification reflects years of dedication, innovation and teamwork across our
entire trauma system,” said Walt Wiley, executive director for Emergency, Trauma, Observation
and EMS Services at NGMC. “Since first achieving Level I verification, our trauma team has
continued to expand its capabilities, strengthen partnerships with first responders and deliver
lifesaving care to thousands of patients across north Georgia.”
“Re-verification is not just a milestone – it’s proof that our team is constantly improving,
learning, and pushing the boundaries of trauma care,” said Matthew Vassy, MD, Trauma medical
director for the hospital. “Our surgeons, nurses, specialists, EMS partners and support
teams work together every day to care for the most critically injured patients in our region.”
Since opening a year ago, officials say, the Green Tower has enhanced the hospital’s
trauma capabilities through dedicated trauma and resuscitation spaces engineered for fast,
coordinated care. “Its rooftop helipad —connected by dedicated elevators to the emergency
department — ensures the quickest possible route for critically injured patients to reach
lifesaving treatment.”
“With Level I status comes a responsibility to lead, innovate and support trauma care
across the region,” said Jessica Mantooth, trauma program director for NGMC. “We take that
responsibility seriously, and this re-verification shows that we are meeting — and exceeding — the standards our community deserves.”
What does Level 1 Trauma Center mean?
What does Level I Trauma Center mean?
A Level I Trauma Center is a medical facility that’s been verified to provide the highest level of care for critically injured patients. These centers have:
- Advanced equipment and staff
- 24/7 surgical coverage
- Expertise in trauma care
- Research and education programs
- Community outreach and prevention efforts
They’re equipped to handle the most severe and complex injuries, and often serve as a resource for other hospitals and emergency services. In this case, NGMC Gainesville has been re-verified as a Level I Trauma Center, demonstrating its commitment to delivering top-notch care.