Norwich — The trauma center at The William W. Backus Hospital has been reverified as a Level III Trauma Center by a panel of the American College of Surgeons, the hospital announced Friday.

This achievement recognizes the trauma center's dedication to providing optimal care for injured patients, the hospital said in a news release.

Backus offers the only trauma center in New London and Windham counties, the hospital said.

Verified trauma centers must meet the essential criteria set by the American College of Surgeons.  

The verification program does not designate trauma centers, but provides confirmation that a trauma center has demonstrated its commitment to providing the highest quality trauma care for all injured patients, the hospital said.

The actual establishment and the designation of trauma centers is the function of local, regional or state health care systems agencies, such as the local emergency medical services authority, the hospital said.