The Minnesota Department of Health recently redesignated Astera Health as a level 4 trauma hospital. Astera Health and staff voluntarily participated in the process to remain part of Minnesota’s statewide trauma system. The process included an outside review of the hospital’s resources and capabilities to care for trauma patients. Astera Health met standards of commitment, clinical and equipment resources, and staff training.  

In October 2023, Astera Health received a site visit as part of the level 4 trauma redesignation application. These visits focus on compliance.  

For a severely injured person, the time between sustaining an injury and receiving definitive care is the most important predictor of survival. A trauma system is a network of hospitals and ambulance services that enhances the chance of survival regardless of proximity to a trauma hospital with a higher designation.  

“Injury is the leading cause of premature death in Minnesota,” said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham. “The goal of the trauma system is to decrease injured patients’ time to care by making sure their medical needs are appropriately matched with hospital resources.” 

On average, trauma claims the lives of 4,300 Minnesotans annually. States with trauma systems have seen survival rates increase by 15 to 20 percent. Wide-scale participation in the voluntary trauma system ensures that a statewide, cooperative effort is in place to care for seriously injured patients.