Statement on trauma center designation based upon system need.

Regional trauma system implementation has been shown to improve mortality and reduce complications. The number, level, and location of trauma centers are critical elements of trauma system function and disaster response. The importance of controlling the allocation of trauma centers, as well as the need for a process to designate trauma centers based upon regional population need, has been recognized as an essential component of trauma system design since the 1980s. Nonetheless, few trauma systems are able to operationalize these concepts, especially when faced with real or potential challenges that stem from powerful health care institutions or providers.