HomePress RoomAspirus Keweenaw Hospital Achieves Level IV Trauma Classification

Aspirus Keweenaw Hospital Achieves Level IV Trauma Classification

  • Published: 9/21/2026

Aspirus Keweenaw Hospital has successfully achieved Level IV Trauma Facility classification following a comprehensive review by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).

During the review, the state trauma team evaluated the hospital’s trauma care processes, documentation, staff training, and overall readiness to treat injured patients and its overall role in Michigan’s integrated trauma system.

“This achievement is a testament to the hard work, expertise, and commitment of our Emergency Department team,” said Darcy Donnelly, Director of Nursing at Aspirus Keweenaw. “Earning Level IV Trauma Center designation affirms our ability to provide rapid assessment, stabilization, and coordination of care for patients when every second matters.”

The MDHHS review team specifically highlighted the strength of the Emergency Department’s leadership and recognized its consistent use of standardized checklists, injury prevention initiatives, community outreach efforts, and evidence-based clinical criteria. These practices help ensure high-quality, coordinated care for patients while supporting consistency across the broader Aspirus system.

“For the patients and families we serve, this designation means they can trust that expert trauma care is available close to home when they need it most,” said Christina Verran, Trauma Program Manager and Supervisor of Nursing for Inpatient and Emergency Services at Aspirus Keweenaw. “Our team works every day to provide timely, compassionate care and ensure patients receive the right treatment at the right time, whether that care occurs here or requires transfer to a higher-level trauma center.”

Michigan’s trauma system designates hospitals at Levels I through IV, recognizing the important role each facility plays in delivering timely and appropriate trauma care. Level IV Trauma Centers provide initial evaluation, stabilization, diagnostic services, and advanced trauma life support before transferring patients to a higher-level trauma center when necessary.

The Level IV classification for Aspirus Keweenaw Hospital is valid for three years. 

“Our multidisciplinary team maintains ongoing trauma education and certifications to stay prepared for both adult and pediatric cases,” Donnelly added. “This achievement underscores our dedication to continuous improvement and excellence in emergency care.” 

“This achievement speaks to the dedication of our physicians, nurses, and support staff who continually invest in training and professional development to maintain trauma readiness,” Donnelly said. “Their commitment helps ensure we can provide high-quality care to both adult and pediatric patients close to home.”