NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi | North Central Bronx has launched a new multimedia campaign to highlight its recent certification as a Level II Pediatric Trauma Center. The American College of Surgeons (ACS) awarded the certification, which ensures top-tier trauma care for patients under 15. Trauma remains the leading cause of death for American children aged one to fourteen.
Jacobi Hospital is already recognized as a Level I Adult Trauma Center, serving the Bronx and Southern Westchester. Last year, the facility treated around 2,300 adult patients, with 1,800 trauma admissions. Jacobi also operates one of New York State’s most effective CureViolence Programs, Stand Up to Violence, aimed at reducing gun violence in the 49th, 47th, and 43rd Precincts.
The process for the Pediatric Level II certification began in December 2018 and was finalized in March 2023. Since then, Jacobi has treated approximately 300 pediatric patients, including 187 trauma admissions.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams praised the new certification, stating, “New Yorkers deserve the highest level of care. This new certification allows us to deliver just that. Our multimedia campaign will keep the public informed about the lifesaving services Jacobi offers and enhance community health in the Bronx.”
Christopher Mastromano, CEO of Jacobi, emphasized the significance of the new designation. “This is a major development for the 1.4 million residents of the Bronx. As the only accredited Pediatric Trauma Center in the borough, our community can rely on us for expert emergency care when it’s needed most.”
Mastromano explained that the Level II Pediatric Trauma Center status ensures around-the-clock in-house surgical subspecialties, rigorous patient quality improvements, and comprehensive services from the hospital’s pediatric staff. Jacobi will also continue its community education initiatives, including “Stop the Bleed” training, seasonal safety courses, and age-appropriate Emergency Department tours.
Dr. Srinivas H. Reddy, Pediatric Trauma Medical Director at Jacobi, noted the critical need for the center. “In 2022, CDC data revealed that firearm-related injuries became the leading cause of death for children and adolescents aged 1 to 19 since the pandemic began in 2020. The Bronx, with over 350,000 children, previously lacked a pediatric trauma center. We are proud to have filled this crucial gap.”
Dr. Stephen Blumberg, Director of Pediatric Emergency Medicine at Jacobi, added, “We are immensely proud to be the Bronx’s only verified Pediatric Trauma Center. This achievement reflects significant collaboration and the commitment of our administration to provide exceptional care for injured children across the borough.”
