Cleveland Clinic defends trauma center plan
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Cleveland Clinic is making its case for building a new Level I trauma center after facing public criticism from MetroHealth.
The big picture: Trauma centers offer the highest level of care for life-threatening injuries, from car crashes to gunshot wounds, and maintain around-the-clock access to specialized surgeons and critical care teams.
Driving the news: In a lengthy public statement issued last week, the Clinic said hundreds of critically injured patients are transferred out of its system every year because it lacks the facilities required to treat them.
- Those transfers add time and risk during already life-threatening emergencies, the hospital said.
What they're saying: "Trauma care is a natural extension of our responsibility to serve patients in our region," the statement read.
- "Expanding trauma care strengthens the safety net for Northeast Ohio and helps ensure more patients can receive lifesaving care close to home, when it matters most."
Zoom out: The trauma center is scheduled to open in 2028, part of a major expansion of the hospital's main campus, including the opening of a new Neurological Institute next year.
Friction point: The plan has sparked a public clash with MetroHealth, which operates one of Cleveland's two existing Level I trauma centers.
- CEO Christine Alexander-Rager has warned a third center could dilute expertise, worsen outcomes and raise costs.
What's next: Alexander-Rager will undoubtedly address the issue, alongside others facing MetroHealth, at the City Club on April 24.