Sanford Thief River Falls Re-Designated as Level 4 Trauma Hospital

The Minnesota Department of Health recently re-designated Sanford Thief River Falls as a Level 4 Trauma Hospital. Sanford Thief River Falls was first designated as a Level 4 Trauma Hospital in 2009.

Sanford Thief River Falls staff voluntarily participated in the intense designation process to become part of Minnesota's statewide trauma system. The process included an outside review of the hospital's resources and capabilities to care for trauma patients. Sanford Thief River Falls met standards of commitment, clinical and equipment resources and staff training. The hospital also participates in a continuous performance improvement process.

"We are excited and proud to be re-designated as a Level 4 Trauma Hospital," said Merleen Knott, Sanford Thief River Falls trauma program manager. "When it comes to trauma-related injuries, every second is crucial. It is our duty to provide our community with the best resources that help improve patient outcomes. We are committed to providing high-quality, timely care close to home, with systems and partnerships in place to ensure our patients receive the right care at the right time. When a higher level of care or specialized expertise is needed, we work closely with EMS and our regional and state partners to facilitate rapid transfers and connect patients with the care they need."

On average, trauma claims the lives of 4,300 Minnesotans annually. States with trauma systems have seen survival rates increase by 15 to 20%. Wide-scale participation in the voluntary trauma system ensures that a statewide, cooperative effort is in place to care for seriously injured patients.

Minnesota began developing a comprehensive statewide trauma system in August 2005. Through its designation, Sanford Thief River Falls recognizes the vital role that communities, ambulance services, hospitals and health care professionals play in the care and management of trauma patients.

For more information, visit the Minnesota Statewide Trauma system at https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/traumasystem/.