Oklahoma Lawmakers Approve State Funding for Second Level I Trauma Center
Tulsa, OK — In a significant development for healthcare in Eastern Oklahoma, state lawmakers have approved funding for a new Level I Trauma Center at St. Francis Health System. As a result of two budget bills, HB 2784 and HB 2793, signed into law on May 29 without the Governor’s signature, a public-private partnership will be established to facilitate this initiative.
House Speaker Kyle Hilbert stated, “By setting aside $8 million, we can access an additional $22 million in federal funding.” This funding aims to enhance trauma care, which is crucial as “minutes matter when lives are on the line,” he added.
Level I Trauma Centers must meet stringent qualifications from both the state and the American College of Surgeons, providing comprehensive trauma care covering everything from emergency response to rehabilitation. This includes 24-hour in-house coverage by general surgeons and access to specialists in critical care, orthopedic surgery, and neurosurgery. Additionally, these centers serve as research and teaching facilities, playing a vital role in local trauma system development and disaster planning.
Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton highlighted the center’s impact, saying it will significantly improve access to emergency care in Eastern Oklahoma, potentially saving lives by reducing the need for transport to Oklahoma City.
Leaders like House Majority Leader Mark Lawson emphasized the long-term benefits, positing this partnership as a model for expanding public health initiatives.
Dr. Cliff Robertson, President and CEO of St. Francis Health System, expressed commitment to operating the new trauma center, which aims to provide critical care for both adults and children while fostering future healthcare professionals through collaboration with Oklahoma State University.
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