PeaceHealth United General earns Level IV Trauma Center redesignation

SEDRO-WOOLLEY, Wash. – PeaceHealth United General Medical Center has officially received a full three-year redesignation as a Level IV trauma center—a significant achievement that underscores the hospital’s commitment to delivering high-quality, lifesaving care in a rural setting.

The designation reflects rigorous evaluation by the Washington State Department of Health and recognizes United General's continued investment in clinical excellence, staff training and community engagement. Among the highlights:

• A notable highlight in the report is the dramatic increase in trauma patients served over the past several years. In 2021, the hospital cared for 210 trauma patients. In 2024, that number more than doubled to 483. This substantial growth not only reflects increased demand but also demonstrates the hospital's ability to scale up and respond to emerging healthcare needs.
• All Emergency Department RNs hold trauma certifications, and all ED physicians are board-certified in emergency medicine, ensuring the team is prepared to provide rapid, evidence-based care in critical situations.
• United General's well-developed Trauma Activation Tool plays a vital role in guiding staff response during emergency situations
• Surveyors highlighted the hospital's intervention protocol for trauma patients who screen positive for drugs or alcohol.
• The hospital's robust injury prevention and community education efforts was another point of pride. The team regularly participates in community events such as Senior Day in the Park in Burlington and the Skagit County Fair, engaging attendees with safety education and prevention strategies

“This recognition speaks directly to the strength of our entire United General team," said Marco Brito, director of clinical services. "I see every day the skill, teamwork and readiness our caregivers bring to each patient who comes through our doors. Our team is deeply committed to providing safe, high-quality care for our community, and I’m incredibly proud of the work they do.”

About PeaceHealth: PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a non-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 caregivers, nearly 3,200 physicians and clinicians, more than 160 clinics and 9 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Visit us online at peacehealth.org.