Lake Charles Memorial | Medical Milestones | Issue 1 2024

Lake Charles is SWLA’s only verified trauma center Since 2019, Lake Charles Memorial Hospital has been a verified Level III Trauma Center by the American College of Surgeons. This achievement recognizes the hospital’s coordinated approach and dedication to providing optimal care for gravely injured patients from the moment they enter the doors, through the entire spectrum of care. This spectrum encompasses the pre-hospital phase through the rehabilitation process. “Memorial is southwest Louisiana’s only verified trauma center,” says Richard Shimer, MD, trauma medical director. “This means we are equipped to meet the needs of our community and have the expertise to treat some of the most severe injuries in our region.” Memorial’s Trauma Center treats over 1,600 trauma patients each year, and 63% of those are considered a Level I or II, requiring extensive care. Because of the extraordinary teamwork and coordinated care of talented physicians and nursing staff, the survival rate of trauma patients treated at Memorial is 98%. “I am satisfied knowing that our team is providing a level of readiness that is unique to Memorial and ensuring the best care possible in a patient’s time of need. Because of this, their families have another day with their loved ones,” says Dr. Shimer. Annual Trauma Symposium Memorial’s Trauma Symposium is a full-day program with an audience of area nurses, physicians, EMS providers and other allied healthcare professionals. The symposium teaches best practices, tips for achieving best outcomes, and how to navigate obstacles so that trauma patients in the SWLA community are better cared for, from pre-hospital care through their rehabilitation process. This symposium has one of the largest attendance of healthcare medical professionals in the state. Always here for you In the case of an emergency, Memorial’s emergency department is open 24/7, 365 days a year, taking care of you and your family. Learn more about what sets our emergency services apart at lcmh.com/er. Memorial’s Trauma Center treats over 1,600 trauma patients each year. Careful care for trauma patients lcmh.com 17 Richard Shimer, MD

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