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Commissioners send letter asking DHHS/OEMS to scrutinize Mission Hospital's level-1 trauma application
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Summary
The board approved a letter urging the North Carolina Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMs) to fully review Mission Hospital's application for initial designation as a level-1 trauma center and to consider potential impacts on patient costs, staffing and access.
Commissioner Ball presented a draft county letter for comment to the North Carolina Office of Emergency Medical Services and the Department of Health and Human Services regarding Mission Hospital's application for designation as a level-1 trauma center. The letter asks state reviewers to scrutinize staffing, care culture, recent performance and any commitments Mission Hospital (HCA) will make to address documented operational issues.
Ball framed the letter as neutral on designation: "This letter does not oppose nor endorse a designation, but we just want to ensure that OEMS collects all relevant information and makes a well informed decision," Ball said. The draft asks OEMS to evaluate whether Mission's staffing and operations align with level-1 standards and to consider the potential for higher costs to patients or reduced access.
Board action: After brief discussion and questions confirming staff communications with DHHS, the board voted to approve the letter and transmit it to the state office. Commissioners emphasized support for high-quality trauma care while asking for full review of the application and any commitments to corrective actions.
Ending: The letter will be submitted to the state as the county's formal comments; DHHS/OEMS will conduct a site visit coordinated with the American College of Surgeons as part of its review.
