This is a year marked by significant milestones for CHOC; one of the biggest, our 50th anniversary. We’ve seen dramatic changes in medicine these past five decades. We’ve also seen CHOC evolve from a small community hospital to a regional pediatric healthcare system with the current vision to be the leading destination for children’s health by providing exceptional and innovative care.
The opening of our Bill Holmes Tower – celebrating its one-year anniversary – represents a big step towards the realization of our vision. In addition to advanced technology and a host
of enhanced patient and family amenities, it houses new laboratory, imaging, surgical, emergency and oncology services with room to grow. Children and families now have a place to call their own – today and in the years to come.
Becoming a Pediatric Level II Trauma Center
Delivering on our promise to the children and families in the community, and in accordance with our new strategic plan, we are now focused on growing key clinical programs. I am pleased to share with you, our valued physician partners, our progress in the area of trauma services.
CHOC has initiated the process of pursuing designation as a pediatric level II trauma center, including having positive discussions with Orange County Medical Services. The agency has provided tremendous guidance, and has joined in our collaboration with other community partners who support the vision of CHOC establishing a high-quality pediatric trauma program.
Currently, we are meeting with elected officials and public safety leaders in the county to brief them on our work. We’re also recruiting a few positions, including a trauma nurse coordinator, for this new service.
Our goal is to receive designation by July 1, 2014 and operationalize by October 1, 2014.
We are truly honored by the positive response we’ve received thus far, and look forward to sharing additional updates with you.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership.