Sangamon Sun

HSHS St. John’s Regional Trauma Center is marking a decade of service as a Level I Trauma Center in January 2025. The Illinois Department of Public Health granted this designation in 2015, recognizing the center's dedication to delivering comprehensive emergency care and medical expertise to Springfield and Central Illinois.

"Over the past decade, St. John’s Regional Trauma Center has not only treated injuries but also provided life-changing care," stated Allison Paul, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, Chief Nursing Officer of HSHS Central Illinois Market. "At a moment’s notice, our talented team delivers the highest level of care, offering patients a second chance at life. The 10 years as a Level 1 Trauma Center is a direct reflection of their unwavering dedication and exceptional skill."

The trauma center is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and treatment capabilities. It employs highly trained professionals including on-site trauma surgeons, board-certified emergency medicine physicians, registered nurses, and other specially trained staff prepared for emergency care. They provide real-time medical oversight to paramedics treating patients in the field and can activate trauma-specific processes before patient arrival.

A Level I Trauma Center offers round-the-clock availability of trauma surgeons and specialists in various fields such as orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, anesthesiology, emergency medicine, radiology, internal medicine, plastic surgery, oral and maxillofacial surgery, pediatric care, and critical care. This ensures comprehensive injury management from prevention through rehabilitation.

Additionally certified as a Level II Pediatric Trauma Center is HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital—the only children’s hospital in Springfield—ready to deliver top-tier care for all ages promptly.

In November 2021, Chris Smith experienced a traumatic head injury at home but received life-saving treatment at St. John’s Hospital ICU after being rushed there. His case exemplifies the transformative work done daily by the St. John’s Regional Trauma Center team.

For further details about HSHS St. John’s Regional Trauma Center, more information is available online.