WCHS Recognized As Nebraska Trauma Level IV Center
October 24, 2025
Winnebago, NE – Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System (WCHS) is proud to announce that its Emergency Room has successfully obtained Nebraska Basic Trauma (Level IV) Center designation from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), pending receipt of the final letter within the next 30 days. WCHS earned this achievement with zero deficiencies, a rare accomplishment that highlights the exceptional skill, dedication, and commitment of its healthcare team.
The journey to trauma designation has been over six years in the making, requiring extensive training, rigorous preparation, and the collective effort of staff across multiple departments. Prior to this achievement, WCHS operated as a non-designated hospital, providing emergency care without the state’s formal recognition as a trauma center. Now, with Level IV designation, WCHS is officially listed among Nebraska’s designated trauma hospitals.
“This milestone reflects the unwavering commitment of our providers, nurses, and support staff to elevate emergency and trauma care for our community,” said Sara McIntosh, Chief Nursing Officer at WCHS. “Earning this designation with zero deficiencies shows the strength of our team and the trust our community can place in WCHS during life’s most critical moments.”
What Trauma Level IV Designation Means for the Community:
- Improved quality and safety: Care is delivered through standardized, guideline-based evaluation.
- Faster, clearer transfer decisions: Patients receive timely decisions for advanced care if needed.
- Community reassurance: Residents can trust that their local emergency department meets rigorous state standards.
- Stronger partnerships: Formalized transfer agreements streamline coordination with higher-level trauma centers.
The path to designation required WCHS to:
- Complete a comprehensive application to Nebraska DHHS.
- Provide documentation of resources, trauma registry participation, and transfer agreements.
- Undergo an on-site review by state officials.
- Demonstrate readiness through internal preparation, protocol development, staff training, and data collection.
“This milestone represents a turning point for our community,” said David Edwards, Chief Executive Officer at WCHS. “For our patients, this designation means higher standards of safety, faster decisions in critical moments, and the reassurance that their local hospital is equipped and recognized to deliver trauma care that meets rigorous state standards. It is a testament to the commitment and expertise of our entire team.”