Willamette Valley Medical Center Recognized for Advanced Trauma Care
June 4, 2025
Willamette Valley Medical Center Recognized for Advanced Trauma Care
Willamette Valley Medical Center (WVMC) is proud to announce that it has been designated as a Level III Trauma Center by the Oregon Health Authority Emergency Medical Services Program and is the only hospital with this designation in Yamhill, Polk, Marion, Benton, and Lincoln counties.
"Willamette Valley Medical Center provides advanced, life-saving care and we are pleased to acknowledge this higher-level designation for the care that we provide," said Dewane Pace, CEO. "The dedicated team here at the hospital does a great job, and this validation of a higher level of trauma care is a true testimony to our doctors, nurses, and entire care team. We are your hospital; providing advanced care when and where you need it most."
Trauma hospitals are distinguished from other facilities in that they guarantee the immediate availability of surgeons, anesthesiologists, physician specialists, nurses, ancillary services, and resuscitation life-support equipment on a 24-hour-a-day basis, dedicated to the care of trauma patients. This designation advances WVMC from Level IV to a Level III Trauma Center.
Level III Trauma Centers have a team of trauma physicians and nurses available to assess the patient upon arrival. Patients that require more comprehensive care are managed and stabilized before being transferred to a Level I or Level II Trauma Center. As part of its Level III status, WVMC provides community educational opportunities in trauma care including Stop the Bleed training, various prevention education classes including and fall prevention for older adults, and health screening events.
Dr. Amber McPherson, emergency room medical director, emphasized the importance of having trauma centers close to home, noting that rapid access to care is crucial for patients with severe injuries. She highlighted how WVMC is leading the way in serving both the local community and beyond. Trauma remains a major cause of preventable deaths, and ensuring access to high-quality care at a trauma center could make a life-saving difference.
"Advancing to a Level III designation, highlights our dedication to delivering expert emergency care when minutes matter most. This recognition underscores our hospital’s commitment to strengthening trauma services, ensuring that critically injured patients in our community receive prompt, high-quality treatment that can make all the difference in survival and recovery" stated Brandon Harris, director of the emergency department.