TULSA, Okla.–Tulsa now has its first and only verified Level I Trauma Center. Ascension St. John Medical Center has earned the designation from the American College of Surgeons, a recognition that signals the highest standard of care for patients with the most critical injuries.
It comes after more than a decade of providing Level II trauma care in Tulsa. The new verification expands access to advanced trauma services for patients across Northeastern Oklahoma, especially in rural and underserved communities that have historically lacked access to comprehensive emergency care.
Level I Trauma Centers are required to maintain 24/7 availability of highly specialized teams, including experts in neurosurgery, orthopedics, cardiothoracic surgery, vascular surgery, hand surgery, plastic surgery and obstetrics. Ascension St. John says the new designation represents a significant investment in both its clinical resources and its people.
“This Level I Trauma Center verification is a testament to Ascension St. John’s commitment to delivering advanced, compassionate care for patients in Northeastern Oklahoma,” said Dr. Michael Charles, trauma program director. “It would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of every member of our team.”
City celebrates achieving Level 1 Trauma Center
City and civic leaders say the move strengthens Tulsa’s health care infrastructure and signals progress toward greater health equity.
“Ascension St. John’s Level I Trauma Center is a game-changer for Tulsa and the entire Northeastern Oklahoma region,” said Mayor Monroe Nichols. “This milestone reflects the strength and dedication of our local healthcare community, and the progress we’re making together to expand access to lifesaving care for everyone.”
Mike Neal, president and CEO of the Tulsa Regional Chamber, pointed to the connection between healthcare access and economic growth.
“This achievement is not just a medical milestone, it’s a community milestone,” Neal said. “Access to top-tier trauma care is a critical component of a thriving city. It strengthens our region’s infrastructure, supports workforce readiness, and gives families and businesses the confidence that Tulsa is a place where their health and well-being are prioritized.”
A century of service
The announcement comes as Ascension St. John prepares to mark 100 years of serving Northeast Oklahoma. What began as a single hospital has grown into a network of seven hospitals and more than 80 clinics, employing over 6,000 people. The system has become a regional leader in trauma care, stroke treatment, surgical robotics and cardiovascular services.
“St. John has been a fixture in the Tulsa community for 100 years,” said Bo Beaudry, Ascension St. John CEO. “As Tulsa grows, St. John grows beside it. This important verification as a Level I Trauma Center will set the tone for excellence that will take us into the next 100 years of top-notch healthcare in Northeast Oklahoma.”
Notably, a hospital in north Tulsa was destroyed during the Tulsa Race Massacre. While new clinics have opened up, the historically-Black community continues to demand a fully-functioning hospital in their own community.
Related Stories:
- Greenwood Moton hospital to become hub for Black entrepreneurs
- Banking while Black: Doctor sues Chase bank for denying services
