10 key factors to guide your ACS trauma center verification decision

Authored by:
Theresa Radeker, MHA, BSN, RN, TCRN
Vice President and Managing Partner

Considering transitioning your state designated trauma center to American College of Surgeons (ACS) verification? Currently, 15 states across the U.S. require trauma centers to achieve ACS verification as part of their trauma system, with many others considering similar requirements. This growing trend underscores the increasing recognition of ACS standards as essential for maintaining high-quality trauma care. Below are key points to consider when presenting this proposal to your administration:

  1. Improved reputation: Achieving ACS verification sets the standard for excellence in trauma care, enhancing your trauma center’s reputation both locally and nationally.
  2. Ensuring consistent care: ACS verification enhances patient outcomes by requiring the implementation of clinical practice guidelines, which improves care quality and fosters effective staff training through the standardization of patient care. 
  3. Identifying areas for improvements: The verification process includes a comprehensive review of operations and outcomes, helping to pinpoint areas for improvement and establish goals for future success.
  4. Following best practices: ACS verification ensures that your center adheres to best practices in trauma care, from staffing and equipment to procedures, guaranteeing that patients receive optimal care.
  5. Access to additional funding: In some states, ACS verification can enhance a trauma center’s eligibility for specific funding or payments, potentially securing additional resources. If your center is near a state border, it may also be the closest suitable facility for patients from neighboring states. ACS verification can eliminate the need to obtain state designation from the neighboring state, simplifying access to care.
  6. Meeting state guidelines: Some states may require or encourage ACS verification for trauma centers. Understanding your state’s regulations and incentives can help guide your decision.
  7. Building community trust: Achieving ACS verification signals a commitment to delivering the highest standard of care, building trust within the community.
  8. Staying competitive: In areas with multiple healthcare options, ACS verification helps trauma centers stand out, attracting more patients and partnerships opportunities.
  9. Preparing for growth: If your trauma center plans to upgrade from Level III to Level II or I, ACS verification demonstrates readiness to take on greater responsibilities.
  10. Enhancing staff training and retention: The ACS verification process often improves staff training and education, ensuring the team stays current with best practices and techniques in trauma care. This leads to higher job satisfaction, better staff retention, and a safer environment for all.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue ACS verification should be guided by a thorough understanding of your trauma center’s current capabilities and long-term goals. A consultative visit with an experienced team can be invaluable if you’ve ever considered ACS verification, offering insights into how it aligns with state requirements and how it can enhance patient care, reputation, and access to resources. By carefully evaluating these factors, your hospital can determine whether ACS verification is the right step toward achieving its objectives.