Kentucky Senate Approves Bill to Ease Trauma Center Standards

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) — A bill advancing in the Kentucky Senate is generating debate over trauma care in the state’s rural communities.

Senator Steve Meredith, who represents District 5, including Ohio County, sponsored Senate Bill 12, which passed the Senate this week.

The legislation loosens standards for level four trauma centers in an effort to expand Kentucky’s trauma care network. Level four trauma centers are designed to assist patients, stabilize their condition, and arrange transfers to higher-level facilities when needed.

Meredith says Kentucky ranks 45th nationwide in trauma-related deaths. He also notes that all 20 level four trauma care facilities in the state are located in rural areas.

The measure passed by a 27–11 vote and now moves to the House for consideration.