Akron Children’s Hospital Trauma Center receives Level 1 verification from the American College of Surgeons

12-13-2022 (Akron, Ohio)

The Akron Children’s Trauma Center has been verified as a Level 1 pediatric trauma center by the Verification Review Committee, an ad hoc committee of the Committee on Trauma of the American College of Surgeons.  

“This achievement recognizes our trauma center's dedication to providing the entire spectrum of care to address the needs of all injured patients,” said Dr. Robert Parry, trauma medical director at Akron Children’s.  

“This spectrum encompasses the prehospital phase through the rehabilitation process and includes academic research aimed at improving outcomes. We’re proud to be recognized as one of the only pediatric Level 1 trauma centers in the region,” he added. “This designation is the highest offered and reflects Akron Children's superior clinical care in trauma and demonstrated commitment to both regional and national trauma care, prevention and research.” 

Verified trauma centers must meet the essential criteria that ensure trauma care capability and institutional performance. Each hospital undergoes a comprehensive review by a team of experienced site reviewers from the American College of Surgeons who use the current “Resources for the Optimal Care of the Injured Patient” manual as a guideline in conducting the survey. 

The verification is valid for three years, through Sept. 8, 2025. Akron Children’s is one of only five Level 1 pediatric trauma centers in the state of Ohio. More than 1,500 trauma patients are treated each year at Akron Children’s with a service area that spans 37 counties and three states. In 2021, Akron Children’s had 161 patients transferred via air by AirBear, 3,202 ground transports and 88,611 emergency room visits.