Pediatric Trauma Medical Director (TMD): Tertiary pediatric Trauma Centers

Pediatric Trauma Medical Director (TMD): Tertiary pediatric Trauma Centers must have a physician director Board Certified in General Surgery or Pediatric Surgery of the pediatric trauma program. This role can be filled by the TMD of the adult Trauma Center. The pediatric TMD plays an important administrative role and may not direct more than one pediatric Trauma Center. The pediatric TMD will be responsible for developing a performance improvement process and will have overall accountability and administrative authority for the pediatric trauma program. The pediatric TMD must be given administrative support to implement the requirements specified by the State trauma plan. The pediatric TMD is responsible for working with the credentialing process of the hospital, and in consultation with the appropriate service chiefs, for recommending appointment and removal of physicians from the pediatric trauma team. He/she must cooperate with nursing administration to support the nursing needs of the pediatric trauma patient and develop treatment protocols for the pediatric trauma patient. The pediatric trauma medical director, in collaboration with the trauma program manager, must coordinate the budgetary process for the trauma program. The director must be currently certified in ATLS, maintain personal involvement in care of the injured pediatric patient, maintain education in pediatric trauma care, and maintain involvement in professional organizations. The pediatric TMD must be actively involved with the trauma system development at the community, regional, and state levels. The TMD must perform an annual assessment of the general surgeons, pediatric surgeons, and mid-level providers assigned to the pediatric trauma service using a formal documented process.