Resources for Optimal Care of the Injured Patient

2022 Standards

The Trauma Verification, Review, and Consultation (VRC) program is pleased to announce the seventh edition of the Resources for Optimal Care of the Injured Patient (2022 Standards).

These standards detail the principles regarding resources, performance improvement patient safety processes, data collection, protocols, research, and education for a trauma center. The VRC program evaluates the care, aligned to the standards and expected scope of practice at each institution.

Since the release in March 2022, many participants and stakeholders have provided insightful feedback on the standards. The program has released the latest version, July 2025. Please note that these changes do not impose additional requirements to be compliant with the standards. If your center has been preparing for an upcoming site visit using the December 2023 revision, you will not need to change anything based on the July 2025 Revision. Please refer to the Change Log for details. These standards are effective immediately.

For revision change logs and other program resources, please visit the 2022 Standards Resources Repository.

The printed version is currently unavailable. Please use the button below to download the PDF version.

Download Trauma Standards

Level IV Trauma Center Standards (2026)

The Trauma Verification, Review, and Consultation (VRC) Program is pleased to present the first edition of the Resources for Optimal Care of the Injured Patient: Level IV Trauma Center Standards (2026). These standards detail the principles regarding resources, patient care, data collection, performance improvement patient safety, and education for Level IV trauma centers.

Building upon prior editions of the Resources Manuals, which have long included expectations applicable to Level IV trauma centers, this standalone Level IV standards manual is intended to provide a practical framework to help centers assess capabilities, identify improvement opportunities, and strengthen trauma care delivery. They may also serve as guidance for trauma systems developing regional or state-level designation criteria. This edition also recognizes the growing importance of telehealth capability in supporting Level IV trauma centers.

Developed through a collaborative, stakeholder-informed process, these standards reflect a commitment to improving trauma care delivery in rural and remote communities while recognizing the unique operational realities of Level IV trauma centers.

Download Level IV Trauma Center Standards

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a ACS verification program associated with the Level IV Trauma Center Standards?

No, the ACS Trauma Quality Programs has not established a verification program for Level IV trauma centers.

The Level IV Trauma Center Standards are intended to complement state trauma system requirements and may serve as guidance for developing regional or state-level designation criteria. State trauma systems retain authority to establish designation requirements and oversight processes consistent with state law.

How can states benefit from the Level IV Standards?

The Level IV Trauma Center Standards provide state trauma systems with a nationally consistent framework to support the development and oversight of Level IV trauma centers within their jurisdictions. As described in the preface, the standards may serve as guidance for trauma systems developing regional or state-level designation criteria.

How can Level IV trauma centers benefit from the Level IV Standards?

The Level IV Trauma Center Standards are intended to assist trauma centers in identifying gaps and opportunities to enhance their ability to deliver optimal trauma care. They provide a structured yet flexible framework to support the development and sustainability of trauma care capacity aligned with local resources, patient population, and role within the trauma system.