When a life-changing injury or medical emergency happens, minutes matter. In El Paso and across a 270-mile region, one facility stands ready around the clock to deliver the highest level of trauma care available: the Scherr Legate Level I Trauma Center at University Medical Center of El Paso.
Verified by the American College of Surgeons, this Level I Trauma Center designation represents the gold standard in trauma care. It means patients have immediate access to specialized surgeons, emergency physicians, nurses, and advanced life-saving technology equipped to treat the most severe and complex injuries.
What Does “Level I Trauma Center” Mean for You?
A Level I verification is the highest recognition available for trauma centers. For patients and families, it means:
- Immediate evaluation and treatment for critical injuries
- On-site trauma surgeons and specialists at all times
- Advanced surgical capabilities
- Comprehensive critical care resources
- A commitment to education, prevention, and continuous performance improvement
Specialized Services Designed for the Most Serious Emergencies
Beyond trauma response, UMC provides a broad range of specialized services that support patients through every stage of critical care and recovery.
Comprehensive Stroke & Heart Care
Time-sensitive brain and heart emergencies demand rapid intervention. UMC is home to a Level 1 Stroke Center (Comprehensive Stroke Center) that provides advanced stroke diagnosis, intervention, and neurocritical care for complex cases.
In addition, its Accredited Chest Pain Center ensures that patients experiencing severe cardiac symptoms have access to coordinated, evidence-based heart care, improving response times and outcomes during cardiac emergencies.
ECMO: Advanced Life Support When It’s Needed Most
For patients experiencing severe heart or lung failure, UMC is home to the region’s only Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) program. This advanced life support system temporarily takes over the function of the heart and lungs, allowing the body time to rest and recover under close monitoring by specialized critical care teams.
Access to ECMO is a powerful resource that not all hospitals can provide, especially in emergency trauma settings.
Dedicated Trauma & Surgical Critical Care
The Scherr Legate Level I Trauma Center includes:
- A 20-bed Trauma and Surgical Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
- Multiple stand-alone trauma bays for rapid assessment and stabilization
- Immediate access to surgical teams and advanced imaging
These resources allow care teams to move quickly from emergency response to surgical intervention and intensive recovery without delay.
Supporting Recovery Beyond the Hospital
Healing doesn’t end after surgery or discharge. UMC participates in the Trauma Survivors Network (TSN), a program that provides emotional, psychological, and social support for trauma patients and their families.
Through resources, peer connections, and educational materials, the Trauma Survivors Network helps individuals navigate the long-term recovery process after life-changing injuries.
A Regional Lifeline for Critical Care
As the only verified Level I Trauma Center within 280 miles, University Medical Center of El Paso plays a vital role in the region’s health and safety. From severe motor vehicle accidents and industrial injuries to complex strokes, heart emergencies, and critical burn cases, UMC provides the highest level of coordinated care.
Stay connected with UMC El Paso’s events, initiatives, and community recognitions. Visit umcelpaso.org to learn more, register for upcoming events, or celebrate our latest achievements.
