CAMDEN-CLARK'S TRAUMA STATUS DROPPED - Physicians Pull Orthopedic Services

(01/19/2008)
Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital has lost its on-call orthopedic coverage.

The hospital has also lost it's Level 3 trauma status.

The hospital is reportedly sending orthopedic cases to other trauma centers, although St. Joseph's Hospital has two orthopedic surgeons on staff, coverage that will not likely be able to cover the needs of the region.

CCMH has also dropped from a level three status to a level four because of the orthopedic problem.

First Settlement Orthopedics has pulled their coverage from Camden-Clark, reportedly related to a dispute related to on-call pay.

The problem happened on January 4, but was not announced to the public until yesterday following complaints from the community.

Hospital trauma levels are designated by how many services and specialties they offer patients.

Charleston Area Medical Center and West Virginia University have level one status.