Trauma Center Organizational Structure

Abstract

We discuss the clinical organizational structure of the trauma center. Patients admitted to a trauma center must pass through several phases of care including the emergency department, intensive care unit, operating room, and acute care floor. We discuss the key administrative leadership in all levels of trauma centers. We provide in-depth discussion of the role of the trauma medical director, trauma program manager, and the physician liaisons from key specialty services. We also discuss some basic components of the transition from emergency medical services to inpatient care of the injured patient.