McKenzie Health System Earns Level 4 Trauma Center Recertification, Reinforcing Commitment to Life-Saving Care

Photo (l to r): Jacie Martus, Radiology Technician; Jay Smith, Director of Diagnostic Imaging and Cardiopulmonary; Sam Mousseau, Paramedic; Lacey Shea, RN, Emergency Department and Trauma Program Manager; and Mallory Scheuer, RN.

McKenzie Health System has once again earned its designation as a Level 4 Trauma Center, following an in-depth recertification process by the State of Michigan. Originally certified in 2017, McKenzie was the first fully-accredited Level IV Trauma facility in the region and continues to be a leader in rural trauma care by meeting strict standards that ensure fast, skilled, and coordinated emergency care for patients across the community.

“This recertification reflects our ongoing commitment to high-quality care and constant improvement,” said Lacey Shea, Trauma Program Manager. “Every review challenges us to ask how we can do better for our patients—and that mindset never stops.”

Level 4 Trauma Centers play a critical role in evaluating, stabilizing, and starting care for patients with traumatic injuries—treating many cases locally and coordinating transfers to higher-level facilities when needed. McKenzie works closely with Level 1 and 2 trauma centers, sharing data and case feedback to improve outcomes and reduce delays. “That first hour after an injury is crucial,” Shea added. “Whether it’s stopping bleeding, beginning diagnostics, or preparing a transfer, every minute matters.”

· McKenzie’s trauma certification is one part of a broader commitment to exceptional emergency services. The hospital also holds several important certifications that, together, form a connected “system of care” designed to deliver the right treatment at the right place and time. These include:

· Joint Commission “Acute Heart Attack Ready” Certification

· Mission: Lifeline STEMI Certification

· ACHC “Stroke Ready” Certification

· Emergency Stroke Care via Telemedicine (in partnership with MyMichigan Health and NeuroOnCall)

· Level 3 Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation

These certifications not only guide internal training and protocols but also link McKenzie to state and regional partners that share resources and best practices—improving emergency care across Michigan.

To maintain its trauma designation, McKenzie completed a detailed review that included patient chart audits, policy reviews, education tracking, and system-wide performance evaluations. In addition to clinical care, McKenzie also emphasizes injury prevention through outreach at

schools, senior centers, community events, and local businesses, offering fall-prevention education, helmet giveaways, and “Stop the Bleed” classes.

The hospital’s trauma program is deeply collaborative, involving nearly every department—from EMS to emergency room nurses and providers to lab, radiology, pharmacy, surgery, therapy, social work, Patient Access Services, and community paramedics. Beyond direct care, other departments—from nutrition and housekeeping to billing and information technology—play key roles in supporting patients and staff. “It’s truly a team effort,” Shea said. “Everyone understands their role, and we work together seamlessly when a trauma patient arrives.”

While larger hospitals are required to have in-house surgical teams 24/7 to qualify as Level 1 or 2 Trauma Centers, rural hospitals like McKenzie are best aligned with Level 4 status. Even so, the McKenzie team works closely with specialists at higher-level centers to guide care and ensure smooth, informed transfers when necessary.

Certification also opens doors to valuable resources, including trauma education grants, equipment funding, and broader quality improvement efforts. These opportunities help McKenzie continue to strengthen its care and outreach across the community.

“Our trauma data doesn’t just sit in a file,” said Becky Stoliker, Director of Nursing Services. “It drives better care, shapes staff education, and supports decisions that help us grow. We’re proud of the care we provide—and we’re always looking for ways to do even more.”

To learn more about trauma and emergency services at McKenzie Health System, visit www.McKenzieHealth.org.