Current Projects
Level II Trauma Designation
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), injuries are the leading cause of death for children and adults ages one to 44. Injuries occur in many ways, including motor vehicle crashes, motorcycle crashes, falls, pedestrian injuries, bicycle crashes, and sport injuries as well as from penetrating injuries, such as gunshot wounds and stab wounds. Outcomes from traumatic injuries have been shown to be improved when those who are injured are cared for in designated trauma centers.
The Haggen Family Emergency & Trauma Center is in the process of applying for a Level II designation. The achievement of Level II trauma designation will recognize PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center’s excellent care for traumatically injured patients. To date, there are no facilities with this prestigious verification in this region, with the next highest level of care in Seattle at Harborview.
Pursuing Level II designation sends a clear message to those we serve in Whatcom and San Juan counties: You will receive the best trauma care possible, close to home.
Injury Prevention
Injury prevention is an important component of our trauma program. We collaborate with several organizations, including the Washington State Department of Health, the North Region EMS & Trauma Care Council, and SafeKids Whatcom County, to provide educational programs to the community. Some of these programs include:
- Fall prevention
- Traffic safety initiatives such as occupant protection
- Safe driving practices
- Child passenger safety
In addition, we encourage the utilization of helmets when on skateboards, bicycles or motorcycles and the safe use of ATV's. The number one cause of lives lost during productive years is injury, and an enormous number of people are disabled, imposing a huge financial and social burden on society.
