DHR Health Level I Trauma Center Re-verified, Always Ready

Edinburg, Texas: DHR Health is proud to announce that its Level I Trauma Center has been re-verified by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). This recognition reaffirms DHR Health’s role as the first hospital in the Rio Grande Valley to earn this designation and underscores its position as a continued leader in delivering the highest level of trauma care in South Texas.

A Level I designation is the highest recognition a trauma center can achieve, reserved for hospitals that provide comprehensive care for the most severe and complex injuries. Re-verification confirms that DHR Health continues to meet the rigorous standards set by the ACS Committee on Trauma and DSHS, including requirements for staffing, resources, training, research, and patient care. From prevention and emergency intervention to surgery, critical care, and rehabilitation, DHR Health remains equipped to provide expert, around-the-clock care.

“Maintaining our Level I Trauma designation is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to excellence. I want to congratulate our physicians, nurses, and staff whose dedication makes this possible. Together, we are leading the way in setting the highest standards of trauma care for South Texas,” said Marissa Castañeda, Senior Executive Vice President at DHR Health.

DHR Health first earned Level I status in 2021. Prior to this achievement, many patients with life-threatening injuries had to be transferred nearly 250 miles to San Antonio—an expensive and risky journey for critically ill patients. Today, DHR Health remains one of only 22 Level I Trauma Centers in Texas, serving patients across 14 counties in South Texas. Its readiness to respond at any hour has saved countless lives, ensuring patients receive top-tier treatment close to home.

“For the last four years, no trauma patient in the Valley has had to be transferred hundreds of miles away. We’ve delivered the highest level of trauma care right here at home, and we will continue to do so for years to come,” said Dr. Jeffrey Skubic, Trauma Surgeon and Medical Director of the DHR Health Level I Trauma Center.

As one of the two Level I Trauma Centers in the region, DHR Health continues to invest in innovation, training, and community outreach to strengthen emergency preparedness across South Texas. This reverification not only affirms the hospital’s capabilities, but also reflects its mission to ensure every patient in the Valley has access to world-class trauma care close to home.